FRG Leaders Handbook

U.S.
ARMY FRG Leaders Handbook
U.S. ARMY FRG Leaders Handbook
Acknowledgements
Acknowledgements
Edition 3, Revised 2006. Ths handbook was prepared for the U.S. Army Famly and Morale, Welfare and Recreaton Command (FMWRC) by Deborah Mancn, a consultant, under Texas A & M Unverstys, Cooperatve State Research Educaton Extenson Servce (CSREES), USDA Grant No. 2004-48211-03128. Cornell Unversty, College of Human Ecology, Famly Lfe Development Center had oversght of graphc reproducton and publcaton. Graphc desgn, Wells Communcatons, Ithaca, NY.
Edition 3, Revised 2006. Ths handbook was prepared for the U.S. Army Famly and Morale, Welfare and Recreaton Command (FMWRC) by Deborah Mancn, a consultant, under Texas A & M Unverstys, Cooperatve State Research Educaton Extenson Servce (CSREES), USDA Grant No. 2004-48211-03128. Cornell Unversty, College of Human Ecology, Famly Lfe Development Center had oversght of graphc reproducton and publcaton. Graphc desgn, Wells Communcatons, Ithaca, NY.

1 Aug 06
1 Aug 06

U.S. ARMY
FRG Leaders Handbook

PART 1: Changes Impacting FRGs
Expedtonary Army and 21st Century Envronment Brgade Combat Teams Perceptons of Solders Famly Integrated Mult-Component Famly Support Network Deployment as a Cycle 1 2 3 3 4
U.S. ARMY
FRG Leaders Handbook

PART 1: Changes Impacting FRGs
Expedtonary Army and 21st Century Envronment Brgade Combat Teams Perceptons of Solders Famly Integrated Mult-Component Famly Support Network Deployment as a Cycle 1 2 3 3 4
PART 2: What FRG Leaders Need To Know

2.1 FRG Program Msson Definton and Msson of FRG Benefits of FRG 2.2 Structure of FRG Operatons Company Level Battalon Level Brgade Level 2.3 Tps on Handlng FRG Leadershp Role Keys to Success Tps to Beng an Effectve FRG Leader Leadershp Abltes and Character Trats Leadershp Styles How to Take Care of Yourself Tranng and Resources for FRG Leaders 6 6 7 8 8 8 8 9 9 10 10 10 11 12
PART 2: What FRG Leaders Need To Know

2.1 FRG Program Msson Definton and Msson of FRG Benefits of FRG 2.2 Structure of FRG Operatons Company Level Battalon Level Brgade Level 2.3 Tps on Handlng FRG Leadershp Role Keys to Success Tps to Beng an Effectve FRG Leader Leadershp Abltes and Character Trats Leadershp Styles How to Take Care of Yourself Tranng and Resources for FRG Leaders 6 6 7 8 8 8 8 9 9 10 10 10 11 12
PART 3: Areas of FRG Leaders Responsibilities

3.1 Relatonshp wth Unt Leadershp Unt Leadershp Responsbltes Msson Responsbltes Famly Readness Responsbltes Appontment of FRG leader FRG Leaders Responsbltes to Unt Leadershp Establshng and Sustanng a Relatonshp 13 14 14 16 16 18 18
PART 3: Areas of FRG Leaders Responsibilities

3.1 Relatonshp wth Unt Leadershp Unt Leadershp Responsbltes Msson Responsbltes Famly Readness Responsbltes Appontment of FRG leader FRG Leaders Responsbltes to Unt Leadershp Establshng and Sustanng a Relatonshp 13 14 14 16 16 18 18
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3.2
Admnstratve Tasks and Resource Management Admnstratve Matters Polcy and Operatonal Gudance Record Keepng Tranng Resource Management Authorzed Support and Fundng FRG Deployment Support Assstants Volunteer Management Identfyng Volunteers Recrutng and Tranng Volunteers Managng and Supervsng Volunteers Recognzng Volunteers Mentorng Future FRG Leaders
20 20 20 21 23 23 24 28 29 29 31 34 34 35 36 36 37 38 39 41 43 43 44 46 47 47 49 51 53
3.2
Admnstratve Tasks and Resource Management Admnstratve Matters Polcy and Operatonal Gudance Record Keepng Tranng Resource Management Authorzed Support and Fundng FRG Deployment Support Assstants Volunteer Management Identfyng Volunteers Recrutng and Tranng Volunteers Managng and Supervsng Volunteers Recognzng Volunteers Mentorng Future FRG Leaders
20 20 20 21 23 23 24 28 29 29 31 34 34 35 36 36 37 38 39 41 43 43 44 46 47 47 49 51 53
3.3
Management of FRG Actvtes Identfyng FRG Actvtes Needed Communcatng wth Army Famles FRG Meetngs FRG Newsletter Key Callers FRG Emal Vrtual Famly Readness Group Web Ste (vFRG) Referrng Famles to Mltary and Cvlan Communty Support Servces Sustanng The Famly Readness Group Handlng Traumatc Stuatons Crss Management Trauma Support Meda Gudance Rumor Control
3.3
Management of FRG Actvtes Identfyng FRG Actvtes Needed Communcatng wth Army Famles FRG Meetngs FRG Newsletter Key Callers FRG Emal Vrtual Famly Readness Group Web Ste (vFRG) Referrng Famles to Mltary and Cvlan Communty Support Servces Sustanng The Famly Readness Group Handlng Traumatc Stuatons Crss Management Trauma Support Meda Gudance Rumor Control
PART 4: Role and Activities of the FRG in Deployment Cycle

4.1 Tran-Up/Preparaton and Moblzaton Phases Assstng Command wth Famly Preparatons and Ensurng FRG Readness Gettng Famles and Solders Ready 4.2 Deployment and Employment Phases Assstng Command wth Famly Communcatons and Managng FRG Actvtes Mantanng Communcatons wth Famles Deployment Issues Chldrens Needs and Reactons to Deployment Casualty and Trauma n the Unt Takng Care of Yourself and FRG Volunteers 4.3 Redeployment Assstng Command wth Reunon Preparatons and FRG Plannng Preparng Famles for Reunon and Supportng Famles of Solders on R & R 4.4 Post Deployment and Reconsttuton Phases Assstng Command wth Post Deployment and Reconsttuton Tasks Supportng Famles wth Reunon and Rentegraton Post Deployment Issues Post-Traumatc Stress Dsorder (PTSD) 73 74 75 75 71 72 70 61 63 65 65 65 68 69 55 57 60 54
PART 4: Role and Activities of the FRG in Deployment Cycle

4.1 Tran-Up/Preparaton and Moblzaton Phases Assstng Command wth Famly Preparatons and Ensurng FRG Readness Gettng Famles and Solders Ready 4.2 Deployment and Employment Phases Assstng Command wth Famly Communcatons and Managng FRG Actvtes Mantanng Communcatons wth Famles Deployment Issues Chldrens Needs and Reactons to Deployment Casualty and Trauma n the Unt Takng Care of Yourself and FRG Volunteers 4.3 Redeployment Assstng Command wth Reunon Preparatons and FRG Plannng Preparng Famles for Reunon and Supportng Famles of Solders on R & R 4.4 Post Deployment and Reconsttuton Phases Assstng Command wth Post Deployment and Reconsttuton Tasks Supportng Famles wth Reunon and Rentegraton Post Deployment Issues Post-Traumatc Stress Dsorder (PTSD) 73 74 75 75 71 72 70 61 63 65 65 65 68 69 55 57 60 54
Combat Operatonal Stress Reacton: Battle Fatgue 75
Combat Operatonal Stress Reacton: Battle Fatgue 75
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PART 5: Summary Highlights References

Documents Web Stes
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PART 5: Summary Highlights References
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Documents Web Stes
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Ths Army Family Readiness Group Leaders Handbook s desgned to be used by Famly Readness Group (FRG) leaders n the actve, Guard, and Reserve Components. The handbook provdes updated nformaton regardng FRGs. A battalon commander/Rear Detachment Commander (RDC) oversees and supports all company FRGs drectly and ndrectly through company level commanders and a battalon FRG steerng commttee. When there s a battalon FRG, then the battalon commander/RDC works wth the battalon FRG leader n the same manner as descrbed above. However, f the Battalon commander chooses to have a sngle FRG for the battalon, the next hgher level commander shall establsh the advsory steerng commttee for the brgades FRGs. Ths handbook ncorporates the gudance provded n AR 608-1, Appendx J, Army Famly Readness Group Operatons and provdes nformaton and tps on how to run FRGs based on lessons learned and nput from the field. The handbook s organzed as follows: Part 1 Part 2 descrbes changes that are occurrng n the mltary and wth famly support that call for FRGs to work n new ways. dscusses key aspects of the FRG program that FRG leaders need to know. Informaton on the FRG msson as well as structure of FRG operatons s provded. Tps on how to handle the FRG leadershp role are also presented. outlnes the areas of the FRG leaders responsbltes. Detals on the relatonshp wth unt leadershp, admnstratve matters, volunteer management, requred FRG actvtes, and communcaton systems between the FRG and famles are gven. Offical gudance that pertans to these areas s ncluded n ths dscusson. In addton, nformaton on how to handle dfferent types of stuatons the FRG leader (and FRG) may face s provded. provdes checklsts of FRG actvtes that must be completed durng each phase of the deployment cycle to support famles. These checklsts hghlght how the FRG leader wll need to work wth unt leadershp and FRG volunteers to perform FRG actvtes n each deployment phase. provdes a lst of take away messages for FRG leaders. Note: The following terms are used throughout this handbook and are defined as follows: Soldiers refers collectively to active duty, Guard and Reserve members of the Army. Families refers collectively to both immediate and extended family members of Soldiers as well as other individuals identified by Soldiers. Deployments is used rather than deployment/mobilization and generally includes separations.
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Ths Army Family Readiness Group Leaders Handbook s desgned to be used by Famly Readness Group (FRG) leaders n the actve, Guard, and Reserve Components. The handbook provdes updated nformaton regardng FRGs. A battalon commander/Rear Detachment Commander (RDC) oversees and supports all company FRGs drectly and ndrectly through company level commanders and a battalon FRG steerng commttee. When there s a battalon FRG, then the battalon commander/RDC works wth the battalon FRG leader n the same manner as descrbed above. However, f the Battalon commander chooses to have a sngle FRG for the battalon, the next hgher level commander shall establsh the advsory steerng commttee for the brgades FRGs. Ths handbook ncorporates the gudance provded n AR 608-1, Appendx J, Army Famly Readness Group Operatons and provdes nformaton and tps on how to run FRGs based on lessons learned and nput from the field. The handbook s organzed as follows: Part 1 Part 2 descrbes changes that are occurrng n the mltary and wth famly support that call for FRGs to work n new ways. dscusses key aspects of the FRG program that FRG leaders need to know. Informaton on the FRG msson as well as structure of FRG operatons s provded. Tps on how to handle the FRG leadershp role are also presented. outlnes the areas of the FRG leaders responsbltes. Detals on the relatonshp wth unt leadershp, admnstratve matters, volunteer management, requred FRG actvtes, and communcaton systems between the FRG and famles are gven. Offical gudance that pertans to these areas s ncluded n ths dscusson. In addton, nformaton on how to handle dfferent types of stuatons the FRG leader (and FRG) may face s provded. provdes checklsts of FRG actvtes that must be completed durng each phase of the deployment cycle to support famles. These checklsts hghlght how the FRG leader wll need to work wth unt leadershp and FRG volunteers to perform FRG actvtes n each deployment phase. provdes a lst of take away messages for FRG leaders. Note: The following terms are used throughout this handbook and are defined as follows: Soldiers refers collectively to active duty, Guard and Reserve members of the Army. Families refers collectively to both immediate and extended family members of Soldiers as well as other individuals identified by Soldiers. Deployments is used rather than deployment/mobilization and generally includes separations.
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Part 3
Part 3
Part 4
Part 4
Part 5
Part 5
PART 1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs
PART 1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs
Several significant changes are occurring that impact how FRGs need to operate today and in the upcoming years. It is no longer sufficient for FRGs to operate only during and/or for the purposes of deployment. FRGs are being called upon to play a more expansive role in family readiness and in assisting units and families of an Expeditionary Army.
Expeditionary Army and 21st Century Environment

The mltary force s beng employed n many dfferent ways due to global nsecurty, the Global War on Terrorsm (GWOT), and natural dsasters. To meet the large demands, mltary mssons nvolve all components (.e., actve, Guard, and Reserve) of the force. As a result, Solders are experencng more deployments and a wder array of mssons. To address the demands on the force, the Army s reorganzng to an expedtonary force comprsed of modular unts (see the next secton on Brgade Combat Teams). In other words, unts are configured n dfferent ways when the force deploys. As a more flexble, rapdly deployable force, the Army can respond more effectvely to the unpredctable nature of deployments and hgh operatng tempo (OPTEMPO) demands.
What does ths mean for FRGs? It means a hgh level of preparedness s requred. Establshng the capablty to respond and adapt to unforeseen stuatons that arse quckly s also needed. For an FRG to work effectvely and support famles under these condtons, several actons are crtcally mportant: plannng and preparaton mantanng the nfrastructure of the FRG and level of operaton so the FRG can respond quckly to ncreased demands for nformaton and support attendng to the welfare of all FRG volunteers and takng other steps to sustan the FRG so the FRG can meet ongong demands for hgh levels of support coordnatng wth others to ensure all famles are reached and supported regardless of geographcal locaton revsng FRG procedures and makng other changes needed based on lessons learned.
Operating the FRG on an ongoing basis is necessary to support units and families in todays environment
Several significant changes are occurring that impact how FRGs need to operate today and in the upcoming years. It is no longer sufficient for FRGs to operate only during and/or for the purposes of deployment. FRGs are being called upon to play a more expansive role in family readiness and in assisting units and families of an Expeditionary Army.
Expeditionary Army and 21st Century Environment

The mltary force s beng employed n many dfferent ways due to global nsecurty, the Global War on Terrorsm (GWOT), and natural dsasters. To meet the large demands, mltary mssons nvolve all components (.e., actve, Guard, and Reserve) of the force. As a result, Solders are experencng more deployments and a wder array of mssons. To address the demands on the force, the Army s reorganzng to an expedtonary force comprsed of modular unts (see the next secton on Brgade Combat Teams). In other words, unts are configured n dfferent ways when the force deploys. As a more flexble, rapdly deployable force, the Army can respond more effectvely to the unpredctable nature of deployments and hgh operatng tempo (OPTEMPO) demands.
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What does ths mean for FRGs? It means a hgh level of preparedness s requred. Establshng the capablty to respond and adapt to unforeseen stuatons that arse quckly s also needed. For an FRG to work effectvely and support famles under these condtons, several actons are crtcally mportant: plannng and preparaton mantanng the nfrastructure of the FRG and level of operaton so the FRG can respond quckly to ncreased demands for nformaton and support attendng to the welfare of all FRG volunteers and takng other steps to sustan the FRG so the FRG can meet ongong demands for hgh levels of support coordnatng wth others to ensure all famles are reached and supported regardless of geographcal locaton revsng FRG procedures and makng other changes needed based on lessons learned.
Operating the FRG on an ongoing basis is necessary to support units and families in todays environment
1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs
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functonal and functonal support brgades. The Natonal Guard s also changng ts structure to 28 BCTs (heavy, nfantry, and Stryker) as well as eght modular dvsons. The restructurng s desgned to enhance the capabltes of the entre Army for jont force operatons and frequent contngency operatons. In order for ths to occur, brgades are already reorganzng. For example, support elements from the dvson level are beng shfted to and added to each BCT. Further, the desgn of each type of brgade s beng standardzed. A heavy brgade combat team wll have the same organzatonal desgn regardless of component or locaton. Each heavy BCT wll have two combned arms battalons, reconnassance squadron, artllery battalon, brgade troops battalon, and a support battalon. What does ths mean for FRGs? 1. All unts need to be n a hgh state of readness. Famly readness s crtcal to Solder readness and thus unt readness. Hence, preparatons for deployment need to be made well before alerts. FRGs need to be organzed and runnng at all tmes to be prepared to assst unts, Solders and famles wth rapd deployments. 2. All unts wthn a BCT may not deploy and/or an entre unt may not deploy. The FRG wll need to support both famles of deployed and non-deployed Solders. Further,
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Brigade Combat Teams

The Armys force structure for meetng the Natons demands s the Modular Force. The Army s creatng a modular brgade-based Army that s more responsve to regonal combatant commanders needs, better employs jont capabltes, facltates force packagng and rapd deployment, and fights as more self-contaned unts n non-lnear, non-contguous battlespaces. Key reasons for change are: more rapdly deployable forces that better meet combatant commanders requrements leveragng jont nteroperablty and nterdependence acceleraton n fieldng a networked force generatng ncreased capabltes for force rotaton explotng jont enablers at tactcal level provdng modular capabltes for future conflcts ncreasng headquarters flexblty mprovng capabltes to operate n dspersed, non-contguous battle spaces acceleratng behavoral change to acheve a jont and expedtonary mndset. The Army Plan as of May 2006, calls for the Actve Component to field 42 brgade combat teams (heavy, nfantry, and Stryker). There wll also be ten modular dvsons that are headquarters capable of jont operatons, as well as a mult2
Brigade Combat Teams

The Armys force structure for meetng the Natons demands s the Modular Force. The Army s creatng a modular brgade-based Army that s more responsve to regonal combatant commanders needs, better employs jont capabltes, facltates force packagng and rapd deployment, and fights as more self-contaned unts n non-lnear, non-contguous battlespaces. Key reasons for change are: more rapdly deployable forces that better meet combatant commanders requrements leveragng jont nteroperablty and nterdependence acceleraton n fieldng a networked force generatng ncreased capabltes for force rotaton explotng jont enablers at tactcal level provdng modular capabltes for future conflcts ncreasng headquarters flexblty mprovng capabltes to operate n dspersed, non-contguous battle spaces acceleratng behavoral change to acheve a jont and expedtonary mndset. The Army Plan as of May 2006, calls for the Actve Component to field 42 brgade combat teams (heavy, nfantry, and Stryker). There wll also be ten modular dvsons that are headquarters capable of jont operatons, as well as a mult-
functonal and functonal support brgades. The Natonal Guard s also changng ts structure to 28 BCTs (heavy, nfantry, and Stryker) as well as eght modular dvsons. The restructurng s desgned to enhance the capabltes of the entre Army for jont force operatons and frequent contngency operatons. In order for ths to occur, brgades are already reorganzng. For example, support elements from the dvson level are beng shfted to and added to each BCT. Further, the desgn of each type of brgade s beng standardzed. A heavy brgade combat team wll have the same organzatonal desgn regardless of component or locaton. Each heavy BCT wll have two combned arms battalons, reconnassance squadron, artllery battalon, brgade troops battalon, and a support battalon. What does ths mean for FRGs? 1. All unts need to be n a hgh state of readness. Famly readness s crtcal to Solder readness and thus unt readness. Hence, preparatons for deployment need to be made well before alerts. FRGs need to be organzed and runnng at all tmes to be prepared to assst unts, Solders and famles wth rapd deployments. 2. All unts wthn a BCT may not deploy and/or an entre unt may not deploy. The FRG wll need to support both famles of deployed and non-deployed Solders. Further,
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Supportng these ndvduals can help Solders to focus on the msson as well as make them more effectve sources of support to Solders. As a result, the FRG must now provde nformaton to a large network of ndvduals to nclude parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other mportant ndvduals (e.g., caregver of Solders chldren durng a deployment, fiance).
the BCT may consst of unts from varous locatons. Thus, for FRGs to support BCTs, they need to operate n such a way that they can serve and cover dfferent geographcal areas. 3. Informaton and gudance from the brgade and battalon command levels wll be mportant to obtan to support deployed BCTs and the famles nvolved.
the BCT may consst of unts from varous locatons. Thus, for FRGs to support BCTs, they need to operate n such a way that they can serve and cover dfferent geographcal areas. 3. Informaton and gudance from the brgade and battalon command levels wll be mportant to obtan to support deployed BCTs and the famles nvolved.
Supportng these ndvduals can help Solders to focus on the msson as well as make them more effectve sources of support to Solders. As a result, the FRG must now provde nformaton to a large network of ndvduals to nclude parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other mportant ndvduals (e.g., caregver of Solders chldren durng a deployment, fiance).
Perception of Soldiers Family
Integrated Multi-Component Today, there s greater recognton of Family Support Network the many dfferent people nvolved (IMCFSN)
n a Solders lfe who represent the Solders support network. Many of these ndvduals seek accurate and tmely nformaton about the Solders well-beng from the mltary. The famly support systems across the actve, Guard, and Reserve Components are also restructurng to a more ntegrated network to algn wth ncreasng jont force
Perception of Soldiers Family
Integrated Multi-Component Today, there s greater recognton of Family Support Network the many dfferent people nvolved (IMCFSN)
n a Solders lfe who represent the Solders support network. Many of these ndvduals seek accurate and tmely nformaton about the Solders well-beng from the mltary. The famly support systems across the actve, Guard, and Reserve Components are also restructurng to a more ntegrated network to algn wth ncreasng jont force
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What does ths mean for FRGs? FRGs can approach any of these agences when assstng famles. There s another benefit. Ths famly support network allows ndvdual organzatons (such as FRGs) to have access to nformaton and support that can enhance ther capablty n supportng famles. For example, ACS and Reserve Component Famly Programs offer tranng to FRGs.
mltary operatons. In addton, workng relatonshps between the unts (.e., unt leadershp and FRGs), mltary communty support organzatons, and cvlan support organzatons are beng establshed. The IMCFSN (see dagram on prevous page) reflects the ntegraton of efforts that are ntended to standardze and strengthen the qualty of support efforts so the needs of all Solders and famles are met. The varous collaboratve arrangements wthn communtes and across states/regons wll help the Army support Solders and famles where they lve regardless of component. Ths outcome s mportant because Solders and famles are geographcally dspersed and some famles do not lve near a mltary nstallaton or faclty. FRGs are a vtal component of support n that they support famles drectly and connect famles to ths network of resources.
Deployment As A Cycle
Wth the trend beng back-to-back deployments, unts go through a seres of phases, now defined as the deployment cycle (see dagram below). The FRG plays an actve role n assstng unts and ther Solders and famles durng each phase and n transtonng from one phase to another. Detaled nformaton on the specfic actvtes FRGs carry out n each phase s provded n Part 4 of ths handbook. A bref explanaton of the deployment cycle s provded here.
mltary operatons. In addton, workng relatonshps between the unts (.e., unt leadershp and FRGs), mltary communty support organzatons, and cvlan support organzatons are beng establshed. The IMCFSN (see dagram on prevous page) reflects the ntegraton of efforts that are ntended to standardze and strengthen the qualty of support efforts so the needs of all Solders and famles are met. The varous collaboratve arrangements wthn communtes and across states/regons wll help the Army support Solders and famles where they lve regardless of component. Ths outcome s mportant because Solders and famles are geographcally dspersed and some famles do not lve near a mltary nstallaton or faclty. FRGs are a vtal component of support n that they support famles drectly and connect famles to ths network of resources.
What does ths mean for FRGs? FRGs can approach any of these agences when assstng famles. There s another benefit. Ths famly support network allows ndvdual organzatons (such as FRGs) to have access to nformaton and support that can enhance ther capablty n supportng famles. For example, ACS and Reserve Component Famly Programs offer tranng to FRGs.
Deployment As A Cycle
Wth the trend beng back-to-back deployments, unts go through a seres of phases, now defined as the deployment cycle (see dagram below). The FRG plays an actve role n assstng unts and ther Solders and famles durng each phase and n transtonng from one phase to another. Detaled nformaton on the specfic actvtes FRGs carry out n each phase s provded n Part 4 of ths handbook. A bref explanaton of the deployment cycle s provded here.
Deployment
Deployment
Mobilization
Employment
Mobilization
Employment
Train-Up/ Preparation
Redeployment
Redeployment
Reconstitution
Post Deployment
Reconstitution
Post Deployment
Train-Up/Preparation. Unts complete the reset actons and begn to enter the tradtonal tranng cycle. Indvdual and collectve tranng and readness actvtes drve ths phase. The Tran-up/Preparaton Phase begns wth completon of reset actvtes resultng n a reconsttuted unt that s prepared to enter the Reset/Tran Force Pool of unts and begn the tranng cycle. Ths phase ends when the ndvduals/unts are fully prepared to deploy worldwde and conduct contngency operatons. Mobilization. Unts or ndvduals are alerted for possble deployment and undergo preparaton. The moblzaton phase begns wth recept of a warnng order and ends wth the ndvduals/unts arrval at the MOB Staton (RC) or home staton (AA). Ths phase ends when ndvduals/unts are prepared for deployment. Deployment. Unts or ndvduals deploy from the CONUS or OCONUS nstallatons nto the desgnated theater. The deployment phase begns wth recept of a warnng order, proceeds through arrval at the port of embarkaton and ends wth arrval n theater. Employment. Unts or ndvduals perform ther assgned msson n theater for a prescrbed perod of tme. The employment phase begns wth arrval n theater, contnues throughout employment and ends wth notficaton for redeployment. Redeployment. Unts/ndvduals reposture n-theater; transfer forces and materal to support other operatonal requrements; or return personnel, equpment, and materal to the home staton or DEMOB staton. The redeployment phase begns wth recept of a warnng order, proceeds through arrval at the rear assembly area (RAA), contnues through arrval at port of debarkaton and ends wth arrval at home staton or DEMOB staton. Post Deployment. Personnel, equpment, and materal arrve at home staton or DEMOB staton. The post deployment phase begns wth unts/ndvduals arrvng at home staton or DEMOB staton, and ncludes personnel, equpment recovery, and demoblzaton actvtes. Reconstitution. Solders and DA cvlans are rentegrated nto ther famles and communtes. The reconsttuton phase begns at home staton after completon post deployment equpment recovery and admnstratve requrements. Ths phase ends when unts have been reconsttuted sufficently to allow the start of ndvdual and collectve tranng.
Train-Up/Preparation. Unts complete the reset actons and begn to enter the tradtonal tranng cycle. Indvdual and collectve tranng and readness actvtes drve ths phase. The Tran-up/Preparaton Phase begns wth completon of reset actvtes resultng n a reconsttuted unt that s prepared to enter the Reset/Tran Force Pool of unts and begn the tranng cycle. Ths phase ends when the ndvduals/unts are fully prepared to deploy worldwde and conduct contngency operatons. Mobilization. Unts or ndvduals are alerted for possble deployment and undergo preparaton. The moblzaton phase begns wth recept of a warnng order and ends wth the ndvduals/unts arrval at the MOB Staton (RC) or home staton (AA). Ths phase ends when ndvduals/unts are prepared for deployment. Deployment. Unts or ndvduals deploy from the CONUS or OCONUS nstallatons nto the desgnated theater. The deployment phase begns wth recept of a warnng order, proceeds through arrval at the port of embarkaton and ends wth arrval n theater. Employment. Unts or ndvduals perform ther assgned msson n theater for a prescrbed perod of tme. The employment phase begns wth arrval n theater, contnues throughout employment and ends wth notficaton for redeployment. Redeployment. Unts/ndvduals reposture n-theater; transfer forces and materal to support other operatonal requrements; or return personnel, equpment, and materal to the home staton or DEMOB staton. The redeployment phase begns wth recept of a warnng order, proceeds through arrval at the rear assembly area (RAA), contnues through arrval at port of debarkaton and ends wth arrval at home staton or DEMOB staton. Post Deployment. Personnel, equpment, and materal arrve at home staton or DEMOB staton. The post deployment phase begns wth unts/ndvduals arrvng at home staton or DEMOB staton, and ncludes personnel, equpment recovery, and demoblzaton actvtes. Reconstitution. Solders and DA cvlans are rentegrated nto ther famles and communtes. The reconsttuton phase begns at home staton after completon post deployment equpment recovery and admnstratve requrements. Ths phase ends when unts have been reconsttuted sufficently to allow the start of ndvdual and collectve tranng.
PART 2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW 2

Part 2 provides important information about the FRG program with tips on how to manage the FRG leader role. It is followed by Part 3 which reviews the specific responsibilities of the FRG leader.
PART 2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW 2

Part 2 provides important information about the FRG program with tips on how to manage the FRG leader role. It is followed by Part 3 which reviews the specific responsibilities of the FRG leader.
2.1 FRG Program Mission

and enhancThe FRG is an ng famly official Army readness of program. Key legal Solders and and operational famles. The guidance is in AR FRG asssts 608-1, Appendix J unt commanders n three ways. Frst, the FRG conducts actvtes that enhance the flow of nformaton between command and famles. The FRG provdes feedback on the state of the unts famles to the command and dssemnates nformaton to famles Definition and Mission of FRG receved from the command. As a company level operaton, the Secondly, the FRG encourages FRG s a command sponsored organ- reslency among the members by zaton of all assgned Solders (mar- provdng nformaton, referral asred and sngle), DA cvlans, volun- sstance and mutual concern. Thrdly, teers and ther famles (mmedate the FRG provdes actvtes and and extended) that together provde support that enhance the well-beng mutual support and assstance and a and esprt de corps wthn the unt. network of communcatons among the famly members, the chan of The FRG mission is to: command, and communty act as an extenson of the unt n resources. Whle all of these provdng offical, accurate ndvduals are automatcally command nformaton consdered to be members of the provde mutual support between FRG, partcpaton s voluntary. the command and the FRG membershp The FRG plays a vtal role n assstng advocate more efficent use of unt commanders wth mltary and communty resources personal deployment preparedness help famles solve problems at the lowest level. The FRG s an offical Army program establshed pursuant to AR 600-20, Army Command Polcy. Unt commanders at all levels are expected to establsh and/or support FRG operatons. FRGs are typcally establshed at the company level wth gudance and support from the battalon commander and hs/her staff. Specfic gudance on the definton and msson of FRGs has been establshed and s descrbed below.
2.1 FRG Program Mission

and enhancThe FRG is an ng famly official Army readness of program. Key legal Solders and and operational famles. The guidance is in AR FRG asssts 608-1, Appendix J unt commanders n three ways. Frst, the FRG conducts actvtes that enhance the flow of nformaton between command and famles. The FRG provdes feedback on the state of the unts famles to the command and dssemnates nformaton to famles Definition and Mission of FRG receved from the command. As a company level operaton, the Secondly, the FRG encourages FRG s a command sponsored organ- reslency among the members by zaton of all assgned Solders (mar- provdng nformaton, referral asred and sngle), DA cvlans, volun- sstance and mutual concern. Thrdly, teers and ther famles (mmedate the FRG provdes actvtes and and extended) that together provde support that enhance the well-beng mutual support and assstance and a and esprt de corps wthn the unt. network of communcatons among the famly members, the chan of The FRG mission is to: command, and communty act as an extenson of the unt n resources. Whle all of these provdng offical, accurate ndvduals are automatcally command nformaton consdered to be members of the provde mutual support between FRG, partcpaton s voluntary. the command and the FRG membershp The FRG plays a vtal role n assstng advocate more efficent use of unt commanders wth mltary and communty resources personal deployment preparedness help famles solve problems at the lowest level. The FRG s an offical Army program establshed pursuant to AR 600-20, Army Command Polcy. Unt commanders at all levels are expected to establsh and/or support FRG operatons. FRGs are typcally establshed at the company level wth gudance and support from the battalon commander and hs/her staff. Specfic gudance on the definton and msson of FRGs has been establshed and s descrbed below.
2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW
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Benefits of the FRG
For family members, mutual support and care The FRG provdes a connecton to the unt through whch famles get mportant nformaton, develop frendshps, and receve moral support. In feelng connected and supported, famles are more lkely to have postve atttudes about mltary lfe, the unt, and ts msson. The FRGs efforts to educate and support famles also help famles become more reslent and able to cope wth deployments. connectons and contact wth famles, enables the command to keep a pulse on famly needs and ssues so that command can respond n a tmely manner. By beng able to communcate wth and support famles more effectvely, the command can ncrease famly readness and deployment preparedness.
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Benefits of the FRG
For family members, mutual support and care The FRG provdes a connecton to the unt through whch famles get mportant nformaton, develop frendshps, and receve moral support. In feelng connected and supported, famles are more lkely to have postve atttudes about mltary lfe, the unt, and ts msson. The FRGs efforts to educate and support famles also help famles become more reslent and able to cope wth deployments. connectons and contact wth famles, enables the command to keep a pulse on famly needs and ssues so that command can respond n a tmely manner. By beng able to communcate wth and support famles more effectvely, the command can ncrease famly readness and deployment preparedness.
For the military and civilian communities, an FRG that s able to refer famles to approprate communty servce agences n a tmely manner can reduce the occurrence of crss stuatons. Further, For Soldiers, peace of mind to the extent FRGs can learn about Solders can be assured that whle resources avalable n dfferent they are deployed, the unt has provded an avenue for ther famly communtes, mltary and cvlan members to get relable nformaton communtes can support Solders and famles wherever they lve. and help when needed. Ths support can help reduce Solders stress and enable Solders to focus on the For the Army, successful FRG programs enhance famly msson. readness and deployment preparedness, thereby ncreasng For commanders, force unt readness for mltary mssons. multiplier The FRG leaders feedback, based on the FRGs
For the military and civilian communities, an FRG that s able to refer famles to approprate communty servce agences n a tmely manner can reduce the occurrence of crss stuatons. Further, For Soldiers, peace of mind to the extent FRGs can learn about Solders can be assured that whle resources avalable n dfferent they are deployed, the unt has provded an avenue for ther famly communtes, mltary and cvlan members to get relable nformaton communtes can support Solders and famles wherever they lve. and help when needed. Ths support can help reduce Solders stress and enable Solders to focus on the For the Army, successful FRG programs enhance famly msson. readness and deployment preparedness, thereby ncreasng For commanders, force unt readness for mltary mssons. multiplier The FRG leaders feedback, based on the FRGs
The FRG provides a connection to the unit through which families get important information, develop friendships, and receive moral support.
The FRG provides a connection to the unit through which families get important information, develop friendships, and receive moral support.
2 2.2 Structure of FRG Operations

Typcally, FRGs are establshed at the company level. However at the battalon level, the battalon commander, key staff, and ther famles are members of the headquarters unt FRG. Occasonally, there s one FRG for the battalon rather than company level FRGs. The battalon and brgade serve n an advsory role to the company-level FRG. As a FRG leader you may ask, What do I do first? The answer s meet wth the Commander/RDC FRGDA, ACS or the Reserve Component Famly Programs. If possble, also meet wth the prevous commander and FRG leaders to gather lessons learned. Ths wll gve you an dea of what else you need to do.
2 2.2 Structure of FRG Operations

Typcally, FRGs are establshed at the company level. However at the battalon level, the battalon commander, key staff, and ther famles are members of the headquarters unt FRG. Occasonally, there s one FRG for the battalon rather than company level FRGs. The battalon and brgade serve n an advsory role to the company-level FRG. As a FRG leader you may ask, What do I do first? The answer s meet wth the Commander/RDC FRGDA, ACS or the Reserve Component Famly Programs. If possble, also meet wth the prevous commander and FRG leaders to gather lessons learned. Ths wll gve you an dea of what else you need to do.
Battalion Level
A FRG steerng commttee (sometmes called advsory commttee) s typcally establshed at the battalon level by the battalon commander. The FRG steerng commttee s comprsed of the battalon commander, command sergeant major, senor FRG advsors, all company (and battalon) FRG leaders, and, when nvted, ACS/ Famly Programs Unt Servce Coordnators. The purpose of the commttee s to provde nformaton and to advse company FRG leaders on the battalon commanders famly readness plans and polces, FRG actvtes needed, and emergng FRG and famly ssues.
Battalion Level
A FRG steerng commttee (sometmes called advsory commttee) s typcally establshed at the battalon level by the battalon commander. The FRG steerng commttee s comprsed of the battalon commander, command sergeant major, senor FRG advsors, all company (and battalon) FRG leaders, and, when nvted, ACS/ Famly Programs Unt Servce Coordnators. The purpose of the commttee s to provde nformaton and to advse company FRG leaders on the battalon commanders famly readness plans and polces, FRG actvtes needed, and emergng FRG and famly ssues.
Company Level
Brigade Level
Brgade commanders have famly A company level FRG leader works readness goals for ther command. most closely wth the company com- Leadershp at ths level focuses mander (or durng deployment, the manly on polcy ssues and overall rear detachment commander). The readness of command. Thus, commander s responsble for leadershp at ths level s seldom appontng the FRG leader, approvdrectly nvolved n company ssues. ng FRG volunteers (statutory volHowever, brgade commanders unteers only), authorzng resources, advse battalon leadershp on provdng gudance and drecton readness ssues whch s then to the FRG, and ensurng tranng s reflected n battalon gudance to provded to the FRG (.e., FRG leader, company FRGs. volunteers and members). More detaled nformaton about ths relatonshp s provded n Secton 1, Relatonshp wth Unt Leadershp, of Part 3 of ths handbook.
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Company Level
A company level FRG leader works most closely wth the company commander (or durng deployment, the rear detachment commander). The commander s responsble for appontng the FRG leader, approvng FRG volunteers (statutory volunteers only), authorzng resources, provdng gudance and drecton to the FRG, and ensurng tranng s provded to the FRG (.e., FRG leader, volunteers and members). More detaled nformaton about ths relatonshp s provded n Secton 1, Relatonshp wth Unt Leadershp, of Part 3 of ths handbook.
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Brigade Level
Brgade commanders have famly readness goals for ther command. Leadershp at ths level focuses manly on polcy ssues and overall readness of command. Thus, leadershp at ths level s seldom drectly nvolved n company ssues. However, brgade commanders advse battalon leadershp on readness ssues whch s then reflected n battalon gudance to company FRGs.
2 2.3 Tips on Handling FRG Leadership Role

Keys To Success
To have an FRG that effectively supports units and families, the FRG leader (and FRG) must: H Maintain communication and work as a team with the commander/rear detachment commander.
2 2.3 Tips on Handling FRG Leadership Role

Keys To Success
To have an FRG that effectively supports units and families, the FRG leader (and FRG) must: H Maintain communication and work as a team with the commander/rear detachment commander.
H Become familiar with Army and unit policies, including FRG

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Find out what support and resources your command will provide to the FRG and seek to obtain this support.
H Become familiar with Army and unit policies, including FRG

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Find out what support and resources your command will provide to the FRG and seek to obtain this support.
H Use the resources available to families. Know how to identify

these community resources and which agencies to refer families for specific assistance.
H Use the resources available to families. Know how to identify

these community resources and which agencies to refer families for specific assistance.
H Get training and prepare for the different types of activities and
situations the FRG may handle. This includes preparing for and knowing the procedures to follow in crisis and trauma situations.
H Get training and prepare for the different types of activities and
situations the FRG may handle. This includes preparing for and knowing the procedures to follow in crisis and trauma situations.
H Create a team of volunteers who will work with the FRG leader
in conducting FRG activities. Assign responsibilities and manage the volunteer team.
H Create a team of volunteers who will work with the FRG leader
in conducting FRG activities. Assign responsibilities and manage the volunteer team.
H Be prepared to adapt to changing demands on the FRG to be

responsive to units and families. Keep a pulse on family issues and ensure steps are taken by the FRG to respond to these issues, as appropriate.
H Be prepared to adapt to changing demands on the FRG to be

responsive to units and families. Keep a pulse on family issues and ensure steps are taken by the FRG to respond to these issues, as appropriate.
H Use the tools and materials prepared for FRG leaders. (This
handbook, the checklist in Part 4 of this handbook, and the Operation READY Smart Book, all provide valuable information and tools to assist FRG leaders as well as FRG volunteers in their efforts.)
H Use the tools and materials prepared for FRG leaders. (This
handbook, the checklist in Part 4 of this handbook, and the Operation READY Smart Book, all provide valuable information and tools to assist FRG leaders as well as FRG volunteers in their efforts.)
2
Tips To Being an Effective FRG Leader
LEADERSHIP STYLES Leadng an FRG wll nvolve usng dfferent leadershp styles wth Leadershp s a crtcal element to a dfferent volunteer groups and/or on well run FRG. It requres havng the dfferent actvtes: sklls that enables the followng to DirectingLeader s task orented occur: wth lttle group nput, especally Effectve teamng relatonshps when lmted group experence or (wth command, FRG volunteers, oflmted tme s avalable. ficer and enlsted membershp, and CoachingLeader s both task communty agences) and group orented; drects and Accurate and tmely flow of encourages the groups effort, but nformaton between FRG and the group s more experenced command, among FRG volunteers, and makes nputs to the process. and between FRG and famles The leader watches progress and Postve envronment for FRG coaches the group as needed to volunteers and members (.e., ndkeep on track. vduals want to belong to the FRG and/or perceve the FRG as able to SupportingLeader s group orented; sets the overall project provde helpful nformaton and goals and supports the groups assstance). efforts. The group has consderEveryone brngs ther own abltes, able experence and therefore trats and styles to the FRG makes major nputs on plannng leadershp role. Ths secton offers and decsons. The leader revews nformaton about thngs to progress at ntervals and suggests consder that may enable an FRG changes. leader to be more effectve. LEADERSHIP ABILITIES AND CHARACTER TRAITS The figure on the rght dentfies the characterstcs of ndvduals who can be effectve n nfluencng people to partcpate n the FRG and have a vested nterest n the FRGs success.
2
Tips To Being an Effective FRG Leader
LEADERSHIP STYLES Leadng an FRG wll nvolve usng dfferent leadershp styles wth Leadershp s a crtcal element to a dfferent volunteer groups and/or on well run FRG. It requres havng the dfferent actvtes: sklls that enables the followng to DirectingLeader s task orented occur: wth lttle group nput, especally Effectve teamng relatonshps when lmted group experence or (wth command, FRG volunteers, oflmted tme s avalable. ficer and enlsted membershp, and CoachingLeader s both task communty agences) and group orented; drects and Accurate and tmely flow of encourages the groups effort, but nformaton between FRG and the group s more experenced command, among FRG volunteers, and makes nputs to the process. and between FRG and famles The leader watches progress and Postve envronment for FRG coaches the group as needed to volunteers and members (.e., ndkeep on track. vduals want to belong to the FRG and/or perceve the FRG as able to SupportingLeader s group orented; sets the overall project provde helpful nformaton and goals and supports the groups assstance). efforts. The group has consderEveryone brngs ther own abltes, able experence and therefore trats and styles to the FRG makes major nputs on plannng leadershp role. Ths secton offers and decsons. The leader revews nformaton about thngs to progress at ntervals and suggests consder that may enable an FRG changes. leader to be more effectve. LEADERSHIP ABILITIES AND CHARACTER TRAITS The figure on the rght dentfies the characterstcs of ndvduals who can be effectve n nfluencng people to partcpate n the FRG and have a vested nterest n the FRGs success.
Delegates Team Player Goal Orented Promotes Dversty Polte Flexble Confident Organzed Supportve Communcaton Sklls Calm Ethcal Assertve Enthusastc Postve Atttude
Delegates Team Player Goal Orented Promotes Dversty Polte Flexble Confident Organzed Supportve Communcaton Sklls Calm Ethcal Assertve Enthusastc Postve Atttude
Far Open Mnded Honest Dedcated Responsble Sense of Humor Good Role Model
Far Open Mnded Honest Dedcated Responsble Sense of Humor Good Role Model
Characteristics of Effective Leaders

10 10
Characteristics of Effective Leaders
2
Dont try to do everythng yourself. Get help. Recrut and tran good people; gve them clear job descrptons and goals; treat them wth respect and regard; and stand backlet them shne n the FRG! Commttee charpersons and other FRG members want to help, so let them! Remember to acknowledge these contrbutons durng meetngs and n your newsletters. Stck to your role as a leader. Leadershp can be dfficult, so dont try to please everyone. Demonstrate that you care and want to make thngs work for the FRG, and everyone should understand and support you. Dont be afrad to try new deas. Learn resources for referrng probHow To Take Care of Yourself lems and follow through. When a famly takes up dsproportonate Beng an FRG leader s a demandng amounts of tmerefer them to job and wll no doubt be stressful the approprate professonal(s). at tmes. Wth lengthy deployments, Provde specfic gudelnes rean FRG leader s lkely to retan ths gardng rumors, chan of concern, poston for a consderable length nformaton dssemnaton, and of tme (anywhere from 12 to 18 a tentatve calendar of events to months). Keep the followng conreduce confuson and lack of comsderatons n mnd as ways to avod muncaton. burnout and to help you manage For tps on managng stress, see the job effectvely: Copng wth Stress fact sheet n the Frst and foremost, FRG leaders Operaton READY Smart Book. should take care of themselves and ther famles. FRG functons, socals, and oblgatons should never come before the needs of your own famly. A sck chld, a martal problem, your job, and other basc ssues take prorty over FRG dutes. Delegate when you need to change prortes. DelegatingLeader s more nterested n group nteracton than the outcome of the project. The group s hghly experenced, and they define the project goals, plan, make decsons, and control ther own work. So, whch leadershp style should FRG leaders use? Wth crtcal tasks, coachng or drectng style mght be used. More routne tasks call for a mx of coachng and supportng styles. Wth certan groups such as FRG commttee chars, a delegaton style mght be used. The stuaton, experence of the group, and tme needed to accomplsh a task are all factors that determne the style to use.
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2
Dont try to do everythng yourself. Get help. Recrut and tran good people; gve them clear job descrptons and goals; treat them wth respect and regard; and stand backlet them shne n the FRG! Commttee charpersons and other FRG members want to help, so let them! Remember to acknowledge these contrbutons durng meetngs and n your newsletters. Stck to your role as a leader. Leadershp can be dfficult, so dont try to please everyone. Demonstrate that you care and want to make thngs work for the FRG, and everyone should understand and support you. Dont be afrad to try new deas. Learn resources for referrng probHow To Take Care of Yourself lems and follow through. When a famly takes up dsproportonate Beng an FRG leader s a demandng amounts of tmerefer them to job and wll no doubt be stressful the approprate professonal(s). at tmes. Wth lengthy deployments, Provde specfic gudelnes rean FRG leader s lkely to retan ths gardng rumors, chan of concern, poston for a consderable length nformaton dssemnaton, and of tme (anywhere from 12 to 18 a tentatve calendar of events to months). Keep the followng conreduce confuson and lack of comsderatons n mnd as ways to avod muncaton. burnout and to help you manage For tps on managng stress, see the job effectvely: Copng wth Stress fact sheet n the Frst and foremost, FRG leaders Operaton READY Smart Book. should take care of themselves and ther famles. FRG functons, socals, and oblgatons should never come before the needs of your own famly. A sck chld, a martal problem, your job, and other basc ssues take prorty over FRG dutes. Delegate when you need to change prortes. DelegatingLeader s more nterested n group nteracton than the outcome of the project. The group s hghly experenced, and they define the project goals, plan, make decsons, and control ther own work. So, whch leadershp style should FRG leaders use? Wth crtcal tasks, coachng or drectng style mght be used. More routne tasks call for a mx of coachng and supportng styles. Wth certan groups such as FRG commttee chars, a delegaton style mght be used. The stuaton, experence of the group, and tme needed to accomplsh a task are all factors that determne the style to use.
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2
Training and Resources for FRG Leaders
The Operaton READY Smart Book contans mportant resource materals and sample forms to assst the FRG n ts efforts. (For example, the Operaton READY Smart Book ncludes an FRG leadershp Checklst whch may be used to assess strengths and weaknesses for the leadershp role.) If addtonal nformaton or help wth partcular sklls and tasks s needed, the FRG leader s encouraged to seek assstance from any of the followng:
2
Training and Resources for FRG Leaders
The Operaton READY Smart Book contans mportant resource materals and sample forms to assst the FRG n ts efforts. (For example, the Operaton READY Smart Book ncludes an FRG leadershp Checklst whch may be used to assess strengths and weaknesses for the leadershp role.) If addtonal nformaton or help wth partcular sklls and tasks s needed, the FRG leader s encouraged to seek assstance from any of the followng:
Rear Detachment Commander Battalon FRG Steerng Commttee FRG Deployment Support Assstant Army Communty Servce/ Army Natonal Guard State Famly Program Coordnator/U.S. Army Reserve Regonal Readness Command Famly Programs Office FRG Leader Onlne Course
Army Volunteer Corps Coordnator (AVCC) or State/Regon Famly Program Drector/Coordnator vFRG Web ste FRG Forum
Talk wth other ndvduals who have experence as an FRG leader Army Famly Team Buldng/Guard Famly Team Buldng
for gudance for gudance for logstcal and admnstratve support for orentaton tranng for new FRG leaders, ongong and sklls tranng for FRG leaders, gudance on managng volunteers, and nformaton on communty resources; also coordnates FRG Forum (see below) for onlne FRG leader tranng that focuses on the management of FRG operatons as well as addresses how to assst famles on a wde range of famly ssues; the tranng s avalable on the web at MyArmyLfeToo.com and a certficate s awarded upon completon for gudance on volunteer ssues (ncludng recrutment, tranng and recognton) provdes a secure web-based forum for FRG leaders a forum created by all FRG leaders on the nstallaton for ongong tranng and a support network provdes first hand nformaton for onlne and classroom tranng on mltary culture and leadershp n dfferent skll levels
Rear Detachment Commander Battalon FRG Steerng Commttee FRG Deployment Support Assstant Army Communty Servce/ Army Natonal Guard State Famly Program Coordnator/U.S. Army Reserve Regonal Readness Command Famly Programs Office FRG Leader Onlne Course
Army Volunteer Corps Coordnator (AVCC) or State/Regon Famly Program Drector/Coordnator vFRG Web ste FRG Forum
Talk wth other ndvduals who have experence as an FRG leader Army Famly Team Buldng/Guard Famly Team Buldng
for gudance for gudance for logstcal and admnstratve support for orentaton tranng for new FRG leaders, ongong and sklls tranng for FRG leaders, gudance on managng volunteers, and nformaton on communty resources; also coordnates FRG Forum (see below) for onlne FRG leader tranng that focuses on the management of FRG operatons as well as addresses how to assst famles on a wde range of famly ssues; the tranng s avalable on the web at MyArmyLfeToo.com and a certficate s awarded upon completon for gudance on volunteer ssues (ncludng recrutment, tranng and recognton) provdes a secure web-based forum for FRG leaders a forum created by all FRG leaders on the nstallaton for ongong tranng and a support network provdes first hand nformaton for onlne and classroom tranng on mltary culture and leadershp n dfferent skll levels
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PART 3: AREAS OF FRG LEADERS RESPONSIBILITY
PART 3: AREAS OF FRG LEADERS RESPONSIBILITY
As the new leader of the FRG, it is important to understand the responsibilities of the FRG leader and to assess how the companys FRG is functioning currently. Use the handbook to determine what is needed to: 1) build up FRG operations and 2) sustain FRG operations. In some instances, it will be necessary to develop many components because the company may not have had an FRG or may have had a poorly run FRG. The FRG leader is responsible for maintaining a working relationship with unit leadership, handling certain administrative tasks, obtaining and managing resources for FRG operations and activities, and providing leadership and direction on FRG activities. Because the FRG is an official program of the Army, regulations and guidance dictate certain aspects of the program. For each area of FRG leadership responsibility, the relevant rules are identified.
As the new leader of the FRG, it is important to understand the responsibilities of the FRG leader and to assess how the companys FRG is functioning currently. Use the handbook to determine what is needed to: 1) build up FRG operations and 2) sustain FRG operations. In some instances, it will be necessary to develop many components because the company may not have had an FRG or may have had a poorly run FRG. The FRG leader is responsible for maintaining a working relationship with unit leadership, handling certain administrative tasks, obtaining and managing resources for FRG operations and activities, and providing leadership and direction on FRG activities. Because the FRG is an official program of the Army, regulations and guidance dictate certain aspects of the program. For each area of FRG leadership responsibility, the relevant rules are identified.
3.1 Relationship With Unit Leadership

Under AR 600-20 commanders are requred to mantan, as approprate to the needs of ther unts, an FRG to encourage self-sufficency among ts members by provdng nformaton, referral assstance and mutual support. Because the FRG s a command sponsored program, the company commander has oversght of the FRG and the FRG leaders role. When the company commander deploys wth the unt, the rear detachment commander (RDC) takes on the role of supportng and assstng the FRG. If a rear detachment s not set up at the company level, then the FRG wll work wth the battalon rear detachment commander. Some battalons opt to desgnate a Famly Readness Lason (FRL) to serve as a pont of contact for the unt and thus the FRG may work wth an FRL. Establshng an effectve relatonshp wth unt leadershp (.e., the company commander, RDC and FRL) s crtcal to supportng famles throughout the deployment cycle. (Note: When there s a battalon FRG then the battalon FRG leader works wth the battalon RDC n the same manner as descrbed n ths secton.) FRGs should also strve to appeal to both officer and enlsted Solders
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3.1 Relationship With Unit Leadership

Under AR 600-20 commanders are requred to mantan, as approprate to the needs of ther unts, an FRG to encourage self-sufficency among ts members by provdng nformaton, referral assstance and mutual support. Because the FRG s a command sponsored program, the company commander has oversght of the FRG and the FRG leaders role. When the company commander deploys wth the unt, the rear detachment commander (RDC) takes on the role of supportng and assstng the FRG. If a rear detachment s not set up at the company level, then the FRG wll work wth the battalon rear detachment commander. Some battalons opt to desgnate a Famly Readness Lason (FRL) to serve as a pont of contact for the unt and thus the FRG may work wth an FRL. Establshng an effectve relatonshp wth unt leadershp (.e., the company commander, RDC and FRL) s crtcal to supportng famles throughout the deployment cycle. (Note: When there s a battalon FRG then the battalon FRG leader works wth the battalon RDC n the same manner as descrbed n ths secton.) FRGs should also strve to appeal to both officer and enlsted Solders
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3: AREAS OF FRG LEADERS RESPONSIBILITY
famles. Commanders should seek FRG leaders who are partcularly adept at energzng both officer and enlsted corps famles. FRGs whch do not reflect ther unts demographcs should be re-evaluated to address any mpedments whch exst towards creatng a balanced and representatonal FRG. Typcal ssues could be FRG meetng tmes, chld care needs, and other famly support related ssues.
s to pck up the daly workload of the deployed unt and provde home-staton support for the unt. The RDC s responsble for all the admnstratve operatons of the rear detachment, to nclude mantanng command and control, accountng for unt property and equpment, and managng personnel. In short, the RDC and the rear detachment personnel keep the unt functonal. One of the most mportant rear detachment dutes, however, s servng as a vtal communcatons lnk between the deployed unt and famly members.
famles. Commanders should seek FRG leaders who are partcularly adept at energzng both officer and enlsted corps famles. FRGs whch do not reflect ther unts demographcs should be re-evaluated to address any mpedments whch exst towards creatng a balanced and representatonal FRG. Typcal ssues could be FRG meetng tmes, chld care needs, and other famly support related ssues.
s to pck up the daly workload of the deployed unt and provde home-staton support for the unt. The RDC s responsble for all the admnstratve operatons of the rear detachment, to nclude mantanng command and control, accountng for unt property and equpment, and managng personnel. In short, the RDC and the rear detachment personnel keep the unt functonal. One of the most mportant rear detachment dutes, however, s servng as a vtal communcatons lnk between the deployed unt and famly members.
Unit Leadership Responsibilities
Unit Leadership Responsibilities
Understandng unt leadershps responsbltes s mportant for an FRG leader to gan an understandng of the demands on command and The deployed commanders goal to know what s and s not the FRGs s to accomplsh the msson whle task. keepng the unts Solders safe and then brngng them home to ther MISSION RESPONSIBILITIES famles and communtes. The RDCs The prmary focus of unt goal works n tandem wth that of leadershps attenton s on msson the deployed commander to help preparedness and conductng famles solve ther problems at the successful mltary operatons. lowest level poston so that the Deployng brgade combat teams problems and resultng anxetes do establsh rear detachments (RD) at not overflow to the deployed Solder brgade and battalon levels. The or requre the attenton of the battalon RDC may appont RDCs deployed commander. at company, troop, and battery levels pror to deployment. The Durng a deployment, the rear battalon level RD leadershp usually detachment commander performs ncludes, at a mnmum, the RDC the dutes of the unt commander. and a Noncommssoned Officer n These responsbltes are lsted on Charge (NCOIC). The RD supports the the next page by command functon. deployed unts, facltates readness To address expectatons of how the of Solders who deploy, and supports RDC wll support famles, an the famles of deployed personnel. emphass s placed on famly matters. Specfically, the msson of the RD
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Understandng unt leadershps responsbltes s mportant for an FRG leader to gan an understandng of the demands on command and The deployed commanders goal to know what s and s not the FRGs s to accomplsh the msson whle task. keepng the unts Solders safe and then brngng them home to ther MISSION RESPONSIBILITIES famles and communtes. The RDCs The prmary focus of unt goal works n tandem wth that of leadershps attenton s on msson the deployed commander to help preparedness and conductng famles solve ther problems at the successful mltary operatons. lowest level poston so that the Deployng brgade combat teams problems and resultng anxetes do establsh rear detachments (RD) at not overflow to the deployed Solder brgade and battalon levels. The or requre the attenton of the battalon RDC may appont RDCs deployed commander. at company, troop, and battery levels pror to deployment. The Durng a deployment, the rear battalon level RD leadershp usually detachment commander performs ncludes, at a mnmum, the RDC the dutes of the unt commander. and a Noncommssoned Officer n These responsbltes are lsted on Charge (NCOIC). The RD supports the the next page by command functon. deployed unts, facltates readness To address expectatons of how the of Solders who deploy, and supports RDC wll support famles, an the famles of deployed personnel. emphass s placed on famly matters. Specfically, the msson of the RD
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Command and Control Establsh and mantan two-way communcaton wth forward deployed unts to ensure tmely and accurate nformaton and to resolve ssues. Also mantan communcaton wth command supplyng augmentees to the deployng unt. Serve as the offical nformaton source for famles. Ths ncludes conductng nformaton brefngs, preparng postngs for vFRG web ste, and revewng FRG newsletters. Also ensure deployment-related nformaton and FRG newsletters are publshed on regular bass. Mantan regular connecton wth famles and famly readness groups (FRGs). Assst wth Famly Assstance Center (FAC) operatons as requested by the garrson or Natonal Guard. Coordnate wth the FRG steerng commttee n conjuncton wth FRG leaders, the chan of command, and mltary and communty resources to support famles. Oversee unt admnstratve functons. Carry out personnel actons. Submt requred reports. Handle casualty notficaton, when apponted. Manage rumor control. Serve as a condut for connectvty between the deployed unt and ther famles.
Operations and Training Attend RDC and FRG courses. Develop staffing plan. Develop battle rhythm plan for RD operatons. Conduct or coordnate mandatory tranng events wth garrson/ Reserve Component agences. Ensure RD and staff duty personnel are traned and senstve to famly member calls and understand how to refer famles to the approprate agency for assstance. Coordnate and support tranng for FRG volunteers and famles. Logistics and Supply Mantan physcal securty and operatons securty. Mantan property and equpment. Conduct nventores. Ensure famly members have opportuntes to mantan contact wth deployed Solders (ncludes establshng or provdng nformaton on mal operatons, vdeo teleconference (VTC), and nternet connecton). Provde FRGs wth access to facltes, equpment, and government vehcles for offical FRG msson actvtes. Family Support Mantan contact wth famles n the command. Ths ncludes keepng n contact wth famles that return to ther home of record or otherwse leave the theater durng ther sponsors deployment.
Command and Control Establsh and mantan two-way communcaton wth forward deployed unts to ensure tmely and accurate nformaton and to resolve ssues. Also mantan communcaton wth command supplyng augmentees to the deployng unt. Serve as the offical nformaton source for famles. Ths ncludes conductng nformaton brefngs, preparng postngs for vFRG web ste, and revewng FRG newsletters. Also ensure deployment-related nformaton and FRG newsletters are publshed on regular bass. Mantan regular connecton wth famles and famly readness groups (FRGs). Assst wth Famly Assstance Center (FAC) operatons as requested by the garrson or Natonal Guard. Coordnate wth the FRG steerng commttee n conjuncton wth FRG leaders, the chan of command, and mltary and communty resources to support famles. Oversee unt admnstratve functons. Carry out personnel actons. Submt requred reports. Handle casualty notficaton, when apponted. Manage rumor control. Serve as a condut for connectvty between the deployed unt and ther famles.
Operations and Training Attend RDC and FRG courses. Develop staffing plan. Develop battle rhythm plan for RD operatons. Conduct or coordnate mandatory tranng events wth garrson/ Reserve Component agences. Ensure RD and staff duty personnel are traned and senstve to famly member calls and understand how to refer famles to the approprate agency for assstance. Coordnate and support tranng for FRG volunteers and famles. Logistics and Supply Mantan physcal securty and operatons securty. Mantan property and equpment. Conduct nventores. Ensure famly members have opportuntes to mantan contact wth deployed Solders (ncludes establshng or provdng nformaton on mal operatons, vdeo teleconference (VTC), and nternet connecton). Provde FRGs wth access to facltes, equpment, and government vehcles for offical FRG msson actvtes. Family Support Mantan contact wth famles n the command. Ths ncludes keepng n contact wth famles that return to ther home of record or otherwse leave the theater durng ther sponsors deployment.
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FAMILY READINESS RESPONSIBILITIES Famly readness s an mportant aspect of Solder readness. The table Administrative on the next page dentfies the unt Valdate and mantan a copy of leadershps famly readness responfamly care plans (FCP) for desbltes and ther role n supportng ployed personnel and personnel FRG operatons. Keep n mnd that preparng to deploy. Conduct FCP the battalon RDC oversees and counselng as requred. supports all company FRGs drectly Mantan unt roster ncludng aug- and ndrectly through the company mentees durng deployments. Ths level RDC and the battalon FRG roster wll be provded to the FRG steerng commttee. to ensure these famles receve communcatons and support. APPOINTMENT OF FRG LEADER Coordnate wth Amercan Red The commander must approve Cross regardng emergency nfor- the appontment of the FRG leader. maton on unt Solders and famly When selectng an FRG leader, conmembers. Log, track and process sder the followng crtera: Red Cross emergency messages Understands commanders famly and notfy forward unt of mpendreadness goals and value of FRG ng Red Cross message. Has the ablty to work wth com Revew RDC and FRG SOPs. Demand leadershp velop/revse FRG SOPs as neces Has an nterest n helpng the sary (see AR 608-1, Appendx J). unts Solders and famles
Mantan regular contact wth FRG leaders. Provde nformaton on mportant unt news to FRG leaders. Ensure regular communcaton between FRG leaders and unt famly members. Attend and support FRG meetngs and actvtes. Update FRG phone trees. Coordnate wth FRG leader for FRG socal or recreatonal actvtes on a regular bass to buld and sustan morale and camaradere. Answer questons and concerns from FRG leaders and famles. Resolve famly ssues by referrng famles to approprate agences.
Oversee FRG Informal Fund, per AR 608-1, Appendx J. Approve FRG requests for APF funds and supplemental msson funds ntended for FRG use (See AR 608-1, Appendx J.) Approve unsolcted donatons and FRG fundrasng requests after consultng wth the unts ethcs counselor. Mantan record of contacts, actons taken and follow-up wth famles.
FAMILY READINESS RESPONSIBILITIES Famly readness s an mportant aspect of Solder readness. The table Administrative on the next page dentfies the unt Valdate and mantan a copy of leadershps famly readness responfamly care plans (FCP) for desbltes and ther role n supportng ployed personnel and personnel FRG operatons. Keep n mnd that preparng to deploy. Conduct FCP the battalon RDC oversees and counselng as requred. supports all company FRGs drectly Mantan unt roster ncludng aug- and ndrectly through the company mentees durng deployments. Ths level RDC and the battalon FRG roster wll be provded to the FRG steerng commttee. to ensure these famles receve communcatons and support. APPOINTMENT OF FRG LEADER Coordnate wth Amercan Red The commander must approve Cross regardng emergency nfor- the appontment of the FRG leader maton on unt Solders and famly When selectng an FRG leader, conmembers. Log, track and process sder the followng crtera: Red Cross emergency messages Understands commanders famly and notfy forward unt of mpendreadness goals and value of FRG ng Red Cross message. Has the ablty to work wth com Revew RDC and FRG SOPs. Demand leadershp velop/revse FRG SOPs as neces Has an nterest n helpng the sary (see AR 608-1, Appendx J). unts Solders and famles
Mantan regular contact wth FRG leaders. Provde nformaton on mportant unt news to FRG leaders. Ensure regular communcaton between FRG leaders and unt famly members. Attend and support FRG meetngs and actvtes. Update FRG phone trees. Coordnate wth FRG leader for FRG socal or recreatonal actvtes on a regular bass to buld and sustan morale and camaradere. Answer questons and concerns from FRG leaders and famles. Resolve famly ssues by referrng famles to approprate agences.
Oversee FRG Informal Fund, per AR 608-1, Appendx J. Approve FRG requests for APF funds and supplemental msson funds ntended for FRG use (See AR 608-1, Appendx J.) Approve unsolcted donatons and FRG fundrasng requests after consultng wth the unts ethcs counselor. Mantan record of contacts, actons taken and follow-up wth famles.
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Company Commander Family Readiness Responsibilities

Prepares Famly Readness Plan and sets famly readness goals for the unt. Mantans approprate SOPs for FRG operatons. Authorzes FRGs use of government facltes, supples, vehcles and mal. Authorzes an FRG nformal fund for FRGs use. Approves FRG leader and FRG nformal fund custodan (treasurer) and alternate. Revews and approves FRG nformal fund reports and FRG newsletters. Approves content and users of vFRG. Notfies FRG leader when a deployment s scheduled. Encourages all Solders and famles to partcpate n FRG actvtes. Ensures that famly readness nformaton sheets and/or rosters are provded to FRG leader. Mantans flow of nformaton wth FRG so famles are kept nformed. Determnes how to address famly ssues. Provdes gudance and support to FRG leader n other ways as practcal. Plans and coordnates unt brefings, homecomng, and supplemental actvtes.
Rear Detachment Commander (RDC) Family Readiness Responsibilities

Serves as unt commander durng deployment. Performs same dutes as commander. Mantans regular contact wth deployed unt. Mantans regular contact wth FRG leader. Provdes nformaton on mportant unt news to FRG leader. Ths ncludes notfyng FRG leader on all unt brefings, welcome home actvtes, and other unt actvtes. Attends and supports FRG meetngs and actvtes. Provdes nformaton to FRG leader to update FRG phone tree. Coordnates wth FRG leader for FRG socal or recreatonal actvtes that buld and sustan morale and camaradere. Authorzes resources and support for FRG when unt deployed. Ensures regular communcaton between FRG leader and unt famly members. Ths ncludes keepng n contact wth famles that return to ther home of record or otherwse leave the area durng ther sponsors deployment. Helps resolve famly ssues or dentfies approprate agences to refer famles, especally for famles of klled or wounded Solders. Handles casualty notficaton, when apponted.
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Company Commander Family Readiness Responsibilities

Prepares Famly Readness Plan and sets famly readness goals for the unt. Mantans approprate SOPs for FRG operatons. Authorzes FRGs use of government facltes, supples, vehcles and mal. Authorzes an FRG nformal fund for FRGs use. Approves FRG leader and FRG nformal fund custodan (treasurer) and alternate. Revews and approves FRG nformal fund reports and FRG newsletters. Approves content and users of vFRG. Notfies FRG leader when a deployment s scheduled. Encourages all Solders and famles to partcpate n FRG actvtes. Ensures that famly readness nformaton sheets and/or rosters are provded to FRG leader. Mantans flow of nformaton wth FRG so famles are kept nformed. Determnes how to address famly ssues. Provdes gudance and support to FRG leader n other ways as practcal. Plans and coordnates unt brefings, homecomng, and supplemental actvtes.
Rear Detachment Commander (RDC) Family Readiness Responsibilities

Serves as unt commander durng deployment. Performs same dutes as commander. Mantans regular contact wth deployed unt. Mantans regular contact wth FRG leader. Provdes nformaton on mportant unt news to FRG leader. Ths ncludes notfyng FRG leader on all unt brefings, welcome home actvtes, and other unt actvtes. Attends and supports FRG meetngs and actvtes. Provdes nformaton to FRG leader to update FRG phone tree. Coordnates wth FRG leader for FRG socal or recreatonal actvtes that buld and sustan morale and camaradere. Authorzes resources and support for FRG when unt deployed. Ensures regular communcaton between FRG leader and unt famly members. Ths ncludes keepng n contact wth famles that return to ther home of record or otherwse leave the area durng ther sponsors deployment. Helps resolve famly ssues or dentfies approprate agences to refer famles, especally for famles of klled or wounded Solders. Handles casualty notficaton, when apponted.
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Dsplays a carng and supportve personalty Knowledgeable about mltary structure and procedures Knowledgeable about communty resources (desred but not requred) Is dependable Has leadershp potental/sklls Exhbts good communcaton sklls Able to work wth people and encourage dverse representaton n FRG Wllng to learn.
Ensure famles are referred to approprate mltary and communty agences for needed assstance Identfy mportant FRG and famly ssues for the command Assst the command n mantanng contact nformaton for famles, especally famly members that leave the area durng deployment Ensure regular communcaton s mantaned wth geographcally separated famles.
Each relatonshp between a command and FRG leader s unque. The FRG leader has a supportve Each commander has hs/her own role to command. The company nterests, areas of emphass, and leadershp wll be relyng on the FRG leadershp styles whch nfluence leader to fulfill the followng roles the commanders expectatons of the FRG leader and the nature and responsbltes: of the workng relatonshp wth Support commanders famly command. Lkewse, each FRG leader readness goals has partcular strengths, personalty Provde overall leadershp of the trats, and knowledge and famlarty FRG (whch ncludes plannng, wth the mltary whch wll nfluence managng, and supervsng FRG the level and type of support sought actvtes) from command. It s essental that the Establsh effectve communcaton systems wth famles (whch FRG leader find effectve ways to work ncludes gettng contact nforma- wth unt leadershp. Establshng and ton for mmedate and extended mantanng two-way communcaton famly members and makng sure s hghly mportant and crtcal. For phone tree s up-to-date) ths reason, the FRG leader s advsed Ensure famles get tmely accuto meet wth the company rate nformaton from command commander soon after becomng the Recrut the volunteers needed to companys FRG leader. In ths ntal conduct requred FRG actvtes as meetng, a dscusson should be held well as those actvtes requested about the FRG leaders role, FRG by command
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FRG Leaders Responsibilities to Unit Leadership
Establishing and Sustaining a Relationship
Dsplays a carng and supportve personalty Knowledgeable about mltary structure and procedures Knowledgeable about communty resources (desred but not requred) Is dependable Has leadershp potental/sklls Exhbts good communcaton sklls Able to work wth people and encourage dverse representaton n FRG Wllng to learn.
Ensure famles are referred to approprate mltary and communty agences for needed assstance Identfy mportant FRG and famly ssues for the command Assst the command n mantanng contact nformaton for famles, especally famly members that leave the area durng deployment Ensure regular communcaton s mantaned wth geographcally separated famles.
Each relatonshp between a command and FRG leader s unque. The FRG leader has a supportve Each commander has hs/her own role to command. The company nterests, areas of emphass, and leadershp wll be relyng on the FRG leadershp styles whch nfluence leader to fulfill the followng roles the commanders expectatons and responsbltes: of the FRG leader and the nature Support commanders famly of the workng relatonshp wth readness goals command. Lkewse, each FRG leader Provde overall leadershp of the has partcular strengths, personalty FRG (whch ncludes plannng, trats, and knowledge and famlarty managng, and supervsng FRG wth the mltary whch wll nfluence actvtes) the level and type of support sought Establsh effectve communcafrom command. It s essental that the ton systems wth famles (whch FRG leader find effectve ways to work ncludes gettng contact nforma- wth unt leadershp. Establshng and ton for mmedate and extended mantanng two-way communcaton famly members and makng sure s hghly mportant and crtcal. For phone tree s up-to-date) ths reason, the FRG leader s advsed Ensure famles get tmely accuto meet wth the company rate nformaton from command commander soon after becomng the Recrut the volunteers needed to companys FRG leader. In ths ntal conduct requred FRG actvtes as meetng, a dscusson should be held well as those actvtes requested about the FRG leaders role, FRG by command
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FRG Leaders Responsibilities to Unit Leadership
Establishing and Sustaining a Relationship
actvtes, ways n whch the command wants to be kept nformed on FRG actvtes and concerns, ways n whch the FRG leader and command wll communcate, and other pertnent ssues. The FRG leader wll then have an understandng of the commanders expectatons on FRG actvtes and operatons. Followng ths ntal meetng, communcatons and meetngs wll need to be conducted as necessary to plan and to support Solders and famles throughout the deployment cycle.
actvtes, ways n whch the command wants to be kept nformed on FRG actvtes and concerns, ways n whch the FRG leader and command wll communcate, and other pertnent ssues. The FRG leader wll then have an understandng of the commanders expectatons on FRG actvtes and operatons. Followng ths ntal meetng, communcatons and meetngs wll need to be conducted as necessary to plan and to support Solders and famles throughout the deployment cycle.
Tips To Successful Working Relationship H Understand each others roles and responsibilities. H Define official military issues versus FRG issues. H Begin communication prior to deployment to develop relationship H H H H
and to discuss important issues (including tough topics such as casualty notification). Establish communication methods and maintain two-way communication. Know the organizational structure (i.e., identify key FRG volunteers for RDC and have RDC identify chain of command within RD for FRG) and ensure each has appropriate contact information. Aim to speak with one voice. Promote mutual respect.
Tips To Successful Working Relationship H Understand each others roles and responsibilities. H Define official military issues versus FRG issues. H Begin communication prior to deployment to develop relationship H H H H
and to discuss important issues (including tough topics such as casualty notification). Establish communication methods and maintain two-way communication. Know the organizational structure (i.e., identify key FRG volunteers for RDC and have RDC identify chain of command within RD for FRG) and ensure each has appropriate contact information. Aim to speak with one voice. Promote mutual respect.
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3.2 Administrative Tasks and Resource Management

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). FRG leaders are responsble for obtanng and famlarzng themselves wth the followng requred unt SOPs related to FRG operatons. In some nstances, the FRG leader may need to provde nformaton to the company commander (or RDC) n Administrative Matters order for the requred document to Certan documents are requred for managng FRG operatons. Addton- be prepared. FRG Budget SOP Ths SOP, whch ally, certan tranng s necessary to s prepared by the commander, mplement FRG operatons. It s mspecfies the approprated fund portant that the FRG leader ensures (APF) support avalable for FRG that the necessary documents are msson actvtes. Ths SOP should avalable and tranngs conducted. also address fundng for volunteer support (.e., travel and tranng POLICY AND OPERATIONAL expenses and rembursement of GUIDANCE ncdental expenses for offical The FRG leader needs to revew statutory volunteers). In addton, and become famlar wth relevant ths SOP should descrbe the proceDepartment of the Army and unt dures and request forms requred polces and regulatons related to for the FRG leader and FRG FRGs. The most mportant regulavolunteers to obtan command tons and SOPs are dentfied below. approval for purchases and remAn expanded lst wth web lnks to bursement. A sample FRG Budget other documents s provded n the SOP s provded n the Operaton Operaton READY Smart Book. READY Smart Book. AR 608-1, Appendix J, Army Family FRG Informal Fund SOP If the company commander approves, Readiness Group Operations. Ths the FRG can establsh one nformal regulaton provdes the commander fund. An SOP must be wrtten for and FRG wth Army gudance on managng the nformal fund. The fundng and managng FRGs. The SOP must nclude the followng detals are summarzed n the nformaton: Resource Management secton (see the FRG name page 23). A copy s ncluded n the descrpton of the FRGs nformal Operaton Ready Smart Book. Running an FRG requires handling specific administrative tasks, obtaining needed resources, and managing FRG volunteers.
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3.2 Administrative Tasks and Resource Management

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). FRG leaders are responsble for obtanng and famlarzng themselves wth the followng requred unt SOPs related to FRG operatons. In some nstances, the FRG leader may need to provde nformaton to the company commander (or RDC) n Administrative Matters order for the requred document to Certan documents are requred for managng FRG operatons. Addton- be prepared. FRG Budget SOP Ths SOP, whch ally, certan tranng s necessary to s prepared by the commander, mplement FRG operatons. It s mspecfies the approprated fund portant that the FRG leader ensures (APF) support avalable for FRG that the necessary documents are msson actvtes. Ths SOP should avalable and tranngs conducted. also address fundng for volunteer support (.e., travel and tranng POLICY AND OPERATIONAL expenses and rembursement of GUIDANCE ncdental expenses for offical The FRG leader needs to revew statutory volunteers). In addton, and become famlar wth relevant ths SOP should descrbe the proceDepartment of the Army and unt dures and request forms requred polces and regulatons related to for the FRG leader and FRG FRGs. The most mportant regulavolunteers to obtan command tons and SOPs are dentfied below. approval for purchases and remAn expanded lst wth web lnks to bursement. A sample FRG Budget other documents s provded n the SOP s provded n the Operaton Operaton READY Smart Book. READY Smart Book. AR 608-1, Appendix J, Army Family FRG Informal Fund SOP If the company commander approves, Readiness Group Operations. Ths the FRG can establsh one nformal regulaton provdes the commander fund. An SOP must be wrtten for and FRG wth Army gudance on managng the nformal fund. The fundng and managng FRGs. The SOP must nclude the followng detals are summarzed n the nformaton: Resource Management secton (see the FRG name page 23). A copy s ncluded n the descrpton of the FRGs nformal Operaton Ready Smart Book. Running an FRG requires handling specific administrative tasks, obtaining needed resources, and managing FRG volunteers.
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Volunteer Records. Under current Army regulatons, certan forms and documentaton must be kept n a volunteer admnstratve file. (See Chapter 5 of AR 608-1.) Due to the turnover n FRG leadershp, the company (.e., unt) should mantan the volunteer admnstratve file rather than the FRG leader. However, the FRG leader s responsble for obtanng the approprate forms from the files and dstrbutng to Appointment Letters. The FRG FRG volunteers. The FRG leader can leader wll need to obtan the com- also prepare documents (such as job manders sgnature on the followng descrptons and letters of appreletters. caton) as needed. The forms and Appontment letter for FRG leader. documents that the company needs It s essental that the commander to have on hand nclude: appont the FRG leader n wrtng. volunteer poston descrptons Appontment letter for FRG n(note: sample FRG volunteer job formal fund custodan. If the FRG descrptons are provded n the establshes an FRG Informal Fund, Operaton READY Smart Book) the company commander must blank volunteer forms (ncludng sgn a letter desgnatng a fund all requred forms for statutory custodan and alternate. volunteers n accordance wth AR FRG Checkng Account Authorza608-1, NGR 600-12, and USARC ton. If the FRG establshes an FRG 608-1, and n accordance wth 10 nformal fund, the company USC 1588)
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funds purpose and functons and a summary of routne actvtes the followng statement, Ths FRG nformal fund s for the benefit of the FRG members only and s establshed exclusvely for chartable purposes, and to provde support to Solders and famly members as the Solders and famles adapt to Army lfe. It s not a busness and s not beng run to generate profits. It s not an nstrumentalty of the Unted States government. The SOP must be approved by the commander and a majorty of the FRG membershp. A sample FRG Informal Fund SOP can be found n the Operaton READY Smart Book. Unit SOP on FRG Newsletter The company must have a SOP on the preparaton, prntng, and dstrbuton of FRG newsletters.
commander must sgn a letter namng the person(s) authorzed to sgn checks on the bank account. A sample letter s provded n the Operaton READY Smart Book. RECORD KEEPING Lmted record keepng s requred. The RDC, ACS/Reserve Component Famly Programs, and FRGDA can assst the FRG leader n these efforts.
Volunteer Records. Under current Army regulatons, certan forms and documentaton must be kept n a volunteer admnstratve file. (See Chapter 5 of AR 608-1.) Due to the turnover n FRG leadershp, the company (.e., unt) should mantan the volunteer admnstratve file rather than the FRG leader. However, the FRG leader s responsble for obtanng the approprate forms from the files and dstrbutng to Appointment Letters. The FRG FRG volunteers. The FRG leader can leader wll need to obtan the com- also prepare documents (such as job manders sgnature on the followng descrptons and letters of appreletters. caton) as needed. The forms and Appontment letter for FRG leader. documents that the company needs It s essental that the commander to have on hand nclude: appont the FRG leader n wrtng. volunteer poston descrptons Appontment letter for FRG n(note: sample FRG volunteer job formal fund custodan. If the FRG descrptons are provded n the establshes an FRG Informal Fund, Operaton READY Smart Book) the company commander must blank volunteer forms (ncludng sgn a letter desgnatng a fund all requred forms for statutory custodan and alternate. volunteers n accordance wth AR FRG Checkng Account Authorza608-1, NGR 600-12, and USARC ton. If the FRG establshes an FRG 608-1, and n accordance wth 10 nformal fund, the company USC 1588)
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funds purpose and functons and a summary of routne actvtes the followng statement, Ths FRG nformal fund s for the benefit of the FRG members only and s establshed exclusvely for chartable purposes, and to provde support to Solders and famly members as the Solders and famles adapt to Army lfe. It s not a busness and s not beng run to generate profits. It s not an nstrumentalty of the Unted States government. The SOP must be approved by the commander and a majorty of the FRG membershp. A sample FRG Informal Fund SOP can be found n the Operaton READY Smart Book. Unit SOP on FRG Newsletter The company must have a SOP on the preparaton, prntng, and dstrbuton of FRG newsletters.
commander must sgn a letter namng the person(s) authorzed to sgn checks on the bank account. A sample letter s provded n the Operaton READY Smart Book. RECORD KEEPING Lmted record keepng s requred. The RDC, ACS/Reserve Component Famly Programs, and FRGDA can assst the FRG leader n these efforts.
conssts of names, addresses (malng and emal), telephone numbers, and other pertnent nformaton on company Solders and famles (ncludng other ndvduals dentfied by Solders). (Keep n mnd t s mportant to get ths same nformaton for Solders detaled to the company for deployment who are not permanently assgned to the unt.) The RDC and Famly Readness Group Deployment Assstant (FRGDA) can If the company does not have these assst n these efforts. If the FRG forms, contact the local ACS, Army leader asks Solders or famles to Volunteer Corps Coordnator (AVCC), complete a famly readness nforNatonal Guard State Famly maton form, then the FRG leader Program Coordnator, or Reserve needs to be aware of prvacy regulaRegonal Readness Command tons. When personal nformaton s Famly Program Office for assstance. collected, the FRG leader s requred Once approprate forms are comto explan the purpose for collectng pleted and submtted for command the nformaton, how t wll be used, (or approprate desgnee) sgnature, and how t wll be protected from they need to be retaned. Docuunauthorzed use. mentaton on ndvduals volunteer hours, record of servce, and awards/ People have the choce of havng letters of apprecaton must also be ther nformaton posted on a genkept. Volunteers work hours are to eral roster and/or the confidental be submtted to the AVCC, Natonal roster that s gven to the FRG leader. Guard State Famly Program Coord- If a spouse strongly ressts gvng nator, or Reserve Regonal Readness the FRG mportant nformaton, then Command Famly Program Office t should be noted, sgned by the or they may be submtted usng the spouse and Solder, and the spouse actve, Guard or Reserve volunteer nstructed that the only contact management web stes. made wth the spouse wll be by the mltary chan of command/rear detachment. In addton, a Prvacy FRG Rosters (Membership, Telephone Tree, Email Distribution Act statement should appear on the Lists). The FRG membershp rosfamly readness nformaton form tercompled from the company and every FRG roster. (A sample alert roster and completed famly Famly Readness nformaton form readness nformaton forms s provded n the Operaton READY Smart Book.)
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volunteer agreement (DD Form 2793) (to be completed by all FRG volunteers) form for recordng volunteer hours parental permsson form (to be gven to youth who volunteer) sample letters of apprecaton requrements for awards sample letters of recommendaton.
conssts of names, addresses (malng and emal), telephone numbers, and other pertnent nformaton on company Solders and famles (ncludng other ndvduals dentfied by Solders). (Keep n mnd t s mportant to get ths same nformaton for Solders detaled to the company for deployment who are not permanently assgned to the unt.) The RDC and Famly Readness Group Deployment Assstant (FRGDA) can If the company does not have these assst n these efforts. If the FRG forms, contact the local ACS, Army leader asks Solders or famles to Volunteer Corps Coordnator (AVCC), complete a famly readness nforNatonal Guard State Famly maton form, then the FRG leader Program Coordnator, or Reserve needs to be aware of prvacy regulaRegonal Readness Command tons. When personal nformaton s Famly Program Office for assstance. collected, the FRG leader s requred Once approprate forms are comto explan the purpose for collectng pleted and submtted for command the nformaton, how t wll be used, (or approprate desgnee) sgnature, and how t wll be protected from they need to be retaned. Docuunauthorzed use. mentaton on ndvduals volunteer hours, record of servce, and awards/ People have the choce of havng letters of apprecaton must also be ther nformaton posted on a genkept. Volunteers work hours are to eral roster and/or the confidental be submtted to the AVCC, Natonal roster that s gven to the FRG leader. Guard State Famly Program Coord- If a spouse strongly ressts gvng nator, or Reserve Regonal Readness the FRG mportant nformaton, then Command Famly Program Office t should be noted, sgned by the or they may be submtted usng the spouse and Solder, and the spouse actve, Guard or Reserve volunteer nstructed that the only contact management web stes. made wth the spouse wll be by the mltary chan of command/rear FRG Rosters (Membership, detachment. In addton, a Prvacy Telephone Tree, Email Distribution Act statement should appear on the Lists). The FRG membershp rosfamly readness nformaton form tercompled from the company and every FRG roster. (A sample alert roster and completed famly Famly Readness nformaton form readness nformaton forms s provded n the Operaton READY Smart Book.)
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volunteer agreement (DD Form 2793) (to be completed by all FRG volunteers) form for recordng volunteer hours parental permsson form (to be gven to youth who volunteer) sample letters of apprecaton requrements for awards sample letters of recommendaton.
As a rule, to protect famles personal data from dentty theft or unauthorzed use, Socal Securty numbers and other senstve nformaton should be omtted. Further to ensure FRG lsts do not fall nto the wrong hands, t s mportant that the FRG leader dscuss wth the commander (or durng deployment, the RDC) who should have a complete copy of the FRG membershp roster, phone tree lst, and/or emal dstrbuton lst. A decson may be made that the RDC and a few key FRG volunteers n addton to the FRG leader retan copes of these lsts (or only FRG roster). (Note: For emergency purposes, the RDC wll need to have a copy of the FRG roster.) Whatever the decson, steps need to be made to ensure that FRG rosters and phone trees are not gven to any thrd party. For ths reason, obsolete copes should be destroyed (.e., shredded). In addton, when a key FRG volunteer or you as the FRG leader leave a poston or move out of the area, these ndvduals copes should be turned n and/or shredded. FRG Informal Fund Reports. If the FRG establshes an nformal fund, the fund custodan must submt a report to the company commander monthly, and as requested. The fund custodan must also provde an annual report on the FRG nformal fund actvty to the first Colonel (O6) commander n the unts chan of command no later than 30 days after
the end of the calendar year. These reports wll summarze the nformal funds financal status to nclude current balance; temzed lst of ncome; and an temzed lst of expendtures along wth an explanaton showng how the expendtures are consstent wth the purpose of the FRG nformal fund as establshed n the SOP. TRAINING Tranng s essental to the FRG leader and volunteers beng able to carry out ther responsbltes. The FRG leader needs to ensure that all approprate ndvduals (ncludng the FRG leader) get the tranng needed. For nformaton on tranng opportuntes for FRG leaders, see secton enttled Tranng and Resources for FRG Leaders n Secton 2 of Part 2 of ths handbook. For nformaton on tranng avalable for FRG volunteers, see page 31 recrutng and tranng. Much of the tranng avalable s free. However, f any costs are to be ncurred, the FRG leader s advsed to seek approval from the commander.
Resource Management
In plannng and conductng FRG actvtes, consderaton should be gven to resources needed such as: Fundng Volunteers (see secton on volunteer management) Equpment Transportaton Interpreters (Note: Free translaton servces are avalable through Mltary One Source.)
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As a rule, to protect famles personal data from dentty theft or unauthorzed use, Socal Securty numbers and other senstve nformaton should be omtted. Further to ensure FRG lsts do not fall nto the wrong hands, t s mportant that the FRG leader dscuss wth the commander (or durng deployment, the RDC) who should have a complete copy of the FRG membershp roster, phone tree lst, and/or emal dstrbuton lst. A decson may be made that the RDC and a few key FRG volunteers n addton to the FRG leader retan copes of these lsts (or only FRG roster). (Note: For emergency purposes, the RDC wll need to have a copy of the FRG roster.) Whatever the decson, steps need to be made to ensure that FRG rosters and phone trees are not gven to any thrd party. For ths reason, obsolete copes should be destroyed (.e., shredded). In addton, when a key FRG volunteer or you as the FRG leader leave a poston or move out of the area, these ndvduals copes should be turned n and/or shredded. FRG Informal Fund Reports. If the FRG establshes an nformal fund, the fund custodan must submt a report to the company commander monthly, and as requested. The fund custodan must also provde an annual report on the FRG nformal fund actvty to the first Colonel (O6) commander n the unts chan of command no later than 30 days after
the end of the calendar year. These reports wll summarze the nformal funds financal status to nclude current balance; temzed lst of ncome; and an temzed lst of expendtures along wth an explanaton showng how the expendtures are consstent wth the purpose of the FRG nformal fund as establshed n the SOP. TRAINING Tranng s essental to the FRG leader and volunteers beng able to carry out ther responsbltes. The FRG leader needs to ensure that all approprate ndvduals (ncludng the FRG leader) get the tranng needed. For nformaton on tranng opportuntes for FRG leaders, see secton enttled Tranng and Resources for FRG Leaders n Secton 2 of Part 2 of ths handbook. For nformaton on tranng avalable for FRG volunteers, see page 31 recrutng and tranng. Much of the tranng avalable s free. However, f any costs are to be ncurred, the FRG leader s advsed to seek approval from the commander.
Resource Management
In plannng and conductng FRG actvtes, consderaton should be gven to resources needed such as: Fundng Volunteers (see secton on volunteer management) Equpment Transportaton Interpreters (Note: Free translaton servces are avalable through Mltary One Source.)
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Locaton(s) for FRG events Chld care for FRG events Food for FRG events Materals and supples for FRG events.
TIP
Resource Options for Child Care: H Funding may be available from the unit so speak to the unit commander. (See authorized support and funding section.) H Access a Standard Alternative Childcare (STACC) site. H Arrange a kiddie corner within the same room as the parents and provide TV/VCR/DVD, coloring materials, a craft project, and snacks. H Set up a pool of trained child care volunteers at the battalion level. Child and Youth Services (CYS) can provide training through their program called Volunteer Child Care in a Unit Setting (VCCUS).
Locaton(s) for FRG events Chld care for FRG events Food for FRG events Materals and supples for FRG events.
TIP
Resource Options for Child Care: H Funding may be available from the unit so speak to the unit commander. (See authorized support and funding section.) H Access a Standard Alternative Childcare (STACC) site. H Arrange a kiddie corner within the same room as the parents and provide TV/VCR/DVD, coloring materials, a craft project, and snacks. H Set up a pool of trained child care volunteers at the battalion level. Child and Youth Services (CYS) can provide training through their program called Volunteer Child Care in a Unit Setting (VCCUS).
Wth the ssuance of AR 608-1, Appendx J, FRGs can obtan many of these resources from the unt they serve. AUTHORIZED SUPPORT AND FUNDING The Army ssued AR 608-1, Appendx J to help commanders and FRG leaders legally and ethcally manage Famly Readness Groups, an extremely mportant facet of the Expedtonary Army.
Wth the ssuance of AR 608-1, Appendx J, FRGs can obtan many of these resources from the unt they serve. AUTHORIZED SUPPORT AND FUNDING The Army ssued AR 608-1, Appendx J to help commanders and FRG leaders legally and ethcally manage Famly Readness Groups, an extremely mportant facet of the Expedtonary Army.
Appropriated funds (APF). Unt commanders are responsble for fundng FRG msson essental actvtes. Because the FRG s an offical Army program, the commander must use the unts telephone, fax, computer, emal, approprated funds (APF) to coper, scanner, equpment, and support FRG msson actvtes. APFs admnstratve supples for offical are used to support both the FRGs FRG busness) volunteers and msson actvtes. Government paper and prntng The level of support provded at supples for FRG newsletters the company level wll depend relayng nformaton from upon command approval and command and to support FRG fundng avalablty. The support that msson actvtes command s authorzed to provde Offical mal for msson-related to the FRG (and statutory FRG purposes and as approved by the volunteers) ncludes: commander (e.g., FRG newsletter Government office space and contanng offical nformaton) equpment (e.g., meetng rooms, Government owned or leased
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Appropriated funds (APF). Unt commanders are responsble for fundng FRG msson essental actvtes. Because the FRG s an offical Army program, the commander must use the unts telephone, fax, computer, emal, approprated funds (APF) to coper, scanner, equpment, and support FRG msson actvtes. APFs admnstratve supples for offical are used to support both the FRGs FRG busness) volunteers and msson actvtes. Government paper and prntng The level of support provded at supples for FRG newsletters the company level wll depend relayng nformaton from upon command approval and command and to support FRG fundng avalablty. The support that msson actvtes command s authorzed to provde Offical mal for msson-related to the FRG (and statutory FRG purposes and as approved by the volunteers) ncludes: commander (e.g., FRG newsletter Government office space and contanng offical nformaton) equpment (e.g., meetng rooms, Government owned or leased
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vehcles for offical FRG actvtes (out-of-pocket expenses such as (ncludng transportaton of FRG chld care, telephone blls, mleage, members for FRG msson-related and other expenses n accordance actvtes) wth chapter 5 of AR 608-1, Army Chld care for commandCommunty Servce Center, sponsored tranng and the Commanders FRG Chld care, educaton and other Budget SOP) for FRG volunteers youth servces for needed famly wth pror approval of the support (applcable when the responsble commander. (Note: FRGs Armed Forces Rembursement members are assgned s lmted and A word of caution: to actve duty or the commander APFs may not be used ordered to actve should nform for FRGs social activities. duty n support the FRG of a contngency leader on operaton). rembursement n advance so that the FRG leader can manage FRG In addton, the company volunteers expectatons.) commander may at hs/her Offical certficates of recognton dscreton use the unts APFs to for volunteers or volunteer support FRG volunteers n other ncentve awards (see NAF for ways such as: authorzed funds for volunteer Pay for travel expenses of offical recognton programs). statutory volunteers. Wth commander pre-approval, Nonappropriated funds (NAF). The authorzed FRG volunteers may company commander s authorzed travel to geographcally dspersed to use NAFs for volunteer members of the FRG to conduct recognton programs based upon offical FRG actvtes. approval of Drector, MWR. NAFs are Pay for tranng expenses (.e., to be used for annual volunteer enrollment, travel, and per dem) recognton programs, awards, of statutory FRG volunteers banquets and to purchase to mprove the volunteers mementos. Most nstallatons host effectveness n hs/her assgned an annual volunteer recognton role or enable the volunteer to program for all communty accept ncreasngly responsble volunteers rather than host several challenges. Fundng depends agency sponsored events. These on command pre-approval and annual volunteer recognton avalablty of funds. programs can be used to recognze Rembursement of offical FRG volunteers. volunteer ncdental expenses
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vehcles for offical FRG actvtes (out-of-pocket expenses such as (ncludng transportaton of FRG chld care, telephone blls, mleage, members for FRG msson-related and other expenses n accordance actvtes) wth chapter 5 of AR 608-1, Army Chld care for commandCommunty Servce Center, sponsored tranng and the Commanders FRG Chld care, educaton and other Budget SOP) for FRG volunteers youth servces for needed famly wth pror approval of the support (applcable when the responsble commander. (Note: FRGs Armed Forces Rembursement members are assgned s lmted and A word of caution: to actve duty or the commander APFs may not be used ordered to actve should nform for FRGs social activities. duty n support the FRG of a contngency leader on operaton). rembursement n advance so that the FRG leader can manage FRG In addton, the company volunteers expectatons.) commander may at hs/her Offical certficates of recognton dscreton use the unts APFs to for volunteers or volunteer support FRG volunteers n other ncentve awards (see NAF for ways such as: authorzed funds for volunteer Pay for travel expenses of offical recognton programs). statutory volunteers. Wth commander pre-approval, Nonappropriated funds (NAF). The authorzed FRG volunteers may company commander s authorzed travel to geographcally dspersed to use NAFs for volunteer members of the FRG to conduct recognton programs based upon offical FRG actvtes. approval of Drector, MWR. NAFs are Pay for tranng expenses (.e., to be used for annual volunteer enrollment, travel, and per dem) recognton programs, awards, of statutory FRG volunteers banquets and to purchase to mprove the volunteers mementos. Most nstallatons host effectveness n hs/her assgned an annual volunteer recognton role or enable the volunteer to program for all communty accept ncreasngly responsble volunteers rather than host several challenges. Fundng depends agency sponsored events. These on command pre-approval and annual volunteer recognton avalablty of funds. programs can be used to recognze Rembursement of offical FRG volunteers. volunteer ncdental expenses
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FRG Informal Fund

Authorized Use Examples: FRG newsletters that contan predomnantly unoffical nformaton Purely socal actvtes (such as partes, outngs, and pcncs) Volunteer recognton Refreshments/meals for FRG meetngs Unauthorized Use Examples: Unts nformal funds (e.g., augmentng the cup and flower fund) Items or servces whch may be pad for usng APFs Tradtonal mltary gfts (such as Solder farewell gfts) Dvson Ball Personal funds (.e., cannot be deposted or mxed wth the treasurers personal funds).
FRG Informal Fund

Authorized Use Examples: FRG newsletters that contan predomnantly unoffical nformaton Purely socal actvtes (such as partes, outngs, and pcncs) Volunteer recognton Refreshments/meals for FRG meetngs Unauthorized Use Examples: Unts nformal funds (e.g., augmentng the cup and flower fund) Items or servces whch may be pad for usng APFs Tradtonal mltary gfts (such as Solder farewell gfts) Dvson Ball Personal funds (.e., cannot be deposted or mxed wth the treasurers personal funds).
FRG informal fund. Wth the authorzaton of the company commander, the FRG can mantan one nformal fund. No more than one FRG nformal fund per unt s authorzed. The nformal fund s prvate mones whch belong to the FRG members and must be spent to benefit the FRG membershp. Use of the fund mones s lmted to the specfic planned purposes stated n the FRGs Informal Fund SOP. The table shows the ntended use of FRG Informal Fund per AR 608-1, Appendx J. 1. Specific regulations must be followed with an FRG Informal Fund. FRGs may conduct nternal fundrasng, n complance wth AR 600-29, Fundrasng wthn the Department of the Army, paragraph 1-5b, and DoD 5500.7-R, Jont Ethcs Regulaton. The Jont Ethcs Regulaton, paragraph 3-210(a)(6) authorzes
26
offical fundrasng by organzatons composed prmarly of Department of Defense or Department of the Army employees and ther dependents when fundrasng among ther own members or dependents for the benefit of ther own welfare funds. Fundrasng shall be approved by the approprate commander after consultaton wth the Department of Army Ethcs Offical (DAEO) or desgnee. Accordng to the Office of Army General Counsel (Ethcs and Fscal Law) and the Army Standards of Conduct Office, an Army organzaton - ncludng but not lmted to unts, nstallatons, and Famly Readness Groups - may offically fundrase from ts own communty members or dependents and from all persons benefitng
FRG informal fund. Wth the authorzaton of the company commander, the FRG can mantan one nformal fund. No more than one FRG nformal fund per unt s authorzed. The nformal fund s prvate mones whch belong to the FRG members and must be spent to benefit the FRG membershp. Use of the fund mones s lmted to the specfic planned purposes stated n the FRGs Informal Fund SOP. The table shows the ntended use of FRG Informal Fund per AR 608-1, Appendx J. 1. Specific regulations must be followed with an FRG Informal Fund. FRGs may conduct nternal fundrasng, n complance wth AR 600-29, Fundrasng wthn the Department of the Army, paragraph 1-5b, and DoD 5500.7-R, Jont Ethcs Regulaton. The Jont Ethcs Regulaton, paragraph 3-210(a)(6) authorzes
26
offical fundrasng by organzatons composed prmarly of Department of Defense or Department of the Army employees and ther dependents when fundrasng among ther own members or dependents for the benefit of ther own welfare funds. Fundrasng shall be approved by the approprate commander after consultaton wth the Department of Army Ethcs Offical (DAEO) or desgnee. Accordng to the Office of Army General Counsel (Ethcs and Fscal Law) and the Army Standards of Conduct Office, an Army organzaton - ncludng but not lmted to unts, nstallatons, and Famly Readness Groups - may offically fundrase from ts own communty members or dependents and from all persons benefitng
the FRG leader should consult from the Army organzaton. For the unt commander, who wll example, an nstallaton may consult wth the approprate benefit from the Brgade or Unt ethcs advsor. Funds should be FRG, thus the FRG may fundrase collected for a specfic planned on the nstallaton. Fundrasng purpose and earmarked accordmust be (1) for the organzangly n the FRG nformal fund tons nformal fund, as opposed ledger. to a prvate charty, partcular 2. An FRG Informal Fund SOP is mltary member or smlar required and must be approved cause; and (2) approved by the by the unit commander and a unt commander and coordmajority of the FRG nated wth the commander wth members. Once approved, the cognzance over the locaton of SOP s sgned at a mnmum fundrasng f dfferent from the by the Unt Commander, FRG organzaton area. Commanders leader, fund custodan (treasshall consult wth ther SJA or urer), and the alternate fund Ethcs Counselor and avod all custodan. A sample FRG nforconflcts wth other authorzed mal fund SOP s provded n the fundrasng actvtes. Operaton READY Smart Book. 3. A fund custodian (treasurer) Army Reserve FRGs may only and an alternate, who will fundrase on post or among manage the FRG informal ther own members. They canfund, must be designated in not fundrase off post, even writing with the commanders f they work or tran n an off signature. Once the custodan post buldng.If the FRG leader s apponted, a bank account n has any fundrasng questons, the FRGs name can be opened A word of caution: under the authorzaton by the FRGs may not: company commander. The an Engage in external fundraising. nual gross ncome of the FRG Solicit donations or gifts. nformal fund s not to exceed Enter into commercial sponsor$5,000 per year to avod tax laship agreements. (Commercial blty. At the same tme, the FRG sponsorship is an agreed upon nformal fund balance should arrangement under which a not exceed $5,000 at any tme. business provides assistance, (Note: In overseas locatons, funding, goods, equipment, or local polcy may requre a lower services in exchange for public fund balance be mantaned. If recognition or other promoths s the case, the commander tional opportunities.) should nclude the correct lmts n the nformal budget SOP.)
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the FRG leader should consult from the Army organzaton. For the unt commander, who wll example, an nstallaton may consult wth the approprate benefit from the Brgade or Unt ethcs advsor. Funds should be FRG, thus the FRG may fundrase collected for a specfic planned on the nstallaton. Fundrasng purpose and earmarked accordmust be (1) for the organzangly n the FRG nformal fund tons nformal fund, as opposed ledger. to a prvate charty, partcular 2. An FRG Informal Fund SOP is mltary member or smlar required and must be approved cause; and (2) approved by the by the unit commander and a unt commander and coordmajority of the FRG nated wth the commander wth members. Once approved, the cognzance over the locaton of SOP s sgned at a mnmum fundrasng f dfferent from the by the Unt Commander, FRG organzaton area. Commanders leader, fund custodan (treasshall consult wth ther SJA or urer), and the alternate fund Ethcs Counselor and avod all custodan. A sample FRG nforconflcts wth other authorzed mal fund SOP s provded n the fundrasng actvtes. Operaton READY Smart Book. 3. A fund custodian (treasurer) Army Reserve FRGs may only and an alternate, who will fundrase on post or among manage the FRG informal ther own members. They canfund, must be designated in not fundrase off post, even writing with the commanders f they work or tran n an off signature. Once the custodan post buldng.If the FRG leader s apponted, a bank account n has any fundrasng questons, the FRGs name can be opened A word of caution: under the authorzaton by the FRGs may not: company commander. The an Engage in external fundraising. nual gross ncome of the FRG Solicit donations or gifts. nformal fund s not to exceed Enter into commercial sponsor$5,000 per year to avod tax laship agreements. (Commercial blty. At the same tme, the FRG sponsorship is an agreed upon nformal fund balance should arrangement under which a not exceed $5,000 at any tme. business provides assistance, (Note: In overseas locatons, funding, goods, equipment, or local polcy may requre a lower services in exchange for public fund balance be mantaned. If recognition or other promoths s the case, the commander tional opportunities.) should nclude the correct lmts n the nformal budget SOP.)
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Other pertnent nformaton related to the FRG nformal fund follows: The commander authorzes openng of a bank account for the FRG fund and prepares a letter namng the persons authorzed to sgn checks drawn on the account. (Note: The bank account s to be set up under the FRGs name and not the custodans name.) For addtonal protecton of FRG nformal funds, the commander may requre the FRG fund be bonded n accordance wth the procedures of AR 210-22, Prvate Organzatons on Army Installatons, paragraph 3-2 b, Fdelty Bondng. Custody, accountng, and documentaton of the FRG nformal fund are the responsblty of the fund custodan or alternate. Accountng or record keepng on the FRG nformal fund may be mantaned lke a personal check regster. The FRGs nformal funds cannot be placed n ether an nterest or dvdend bearng account. Ths s necessary to avod potental tax labltes.
corps. They are typcally assgned to support brgade, and sometmes battalon, unts wth a hgh number of deployments. In the Guard, there s one FRGDA per state. In the Reserve, the number of FRGDAs assgned to the Reserve Regonal Readness Commands vares.
The role of the FRGDA s to provde admnstratve support to both commanders and FRG leaders n support of famly readness programs and actvtes. (Note: The FRGDA s not to mpnge on the FRG leaders role and responsbltes. Further, the FRGDA s not an ntermedary but works n a trangular relatonshp wth commanders and FRG leaders.) Ths admnstratve support s ntended to lghten the admnstratve burden on FRG leaders. The actual tasks performed are dependent upon unt needs, command drecton (.e., RDC durng deployment), FRGDAs poston descrpton, and number of FRGs, but may nclude: Assstng wth schedulng/coordnatng unt pre-deployment and reunon actvtes Schedulng and coordnatng FRG DEPLOYMENT SUPPORT famly readness tranng or unt ASSISTANTS (FRGDA) sponsored tranng for Solders and The Famly Readness Group Deployfamles ment Support Assstant (FRGDA) Workng wth RDC to provde FRG (referred to as Moblzaton and leaders wth tmely and accurate Deployment Assstant n the Reserve nformaton (e.g., emal all FRG Component) s a pad poston suleaders) pervsed by the unt commander. In Helpng develop and dstrbute the actve component, the number unt newsletters, announcements, of FRGDAs vares across dvsons/ and flyers
Other pertnent nformaton related to the FRG nformal fund follows: The commander authorzes openng of a bank account for the FRG fund and prepares a letter namng the persons authorzed to sgn checks drawn on the account. (Note: The bank account s to be set up under the FRGs name and not the custodans name.) For addtonal protecton of FRG nformal funds, the commander may requre the FRG fund be bonded n accordance wth the procedures of AR 210-22, Prvate Organzatons on Army Installatons, paragraph 3-2 b, Fdelty Bondng. Custody, accountng, and documentaton of the FRG nformal fund are the responsblty of the fund custodan or alternate. Accountng or record keepng on the FRG nformal fund may be mantaned lke a personal check regster. The FRGs nformal funds cannot be placed n ether an nterest or dvdend bearng account. Ths s necessary to avod potental tax labltes.
corps. They are typcally assgned to support brgade, and sometmes battalon, unts wth a hgh number of deployments. In the Guard, there s one FRGDA per state. In the Reserve, the number of FRGDAs assgned to the Reserve Regonal Readness Commands vares.
The role of the FRGDA s to provde admnstratve support to both commanders and FRG leaders n support of famly readness programs and actvtes. (Note: The FRGDA s not to mpnge on the FRG leaders role and responsbltes. Further, the FRGDA s not an ntermedary but works n a trangular relatonshp wth commanders and FRG leaders.) Ths admnstratve support s ntended to lghten the admnstratve burden on FRG leaders. The actual tasks performed are dependent upon unt needs, command drecton (.e., RDC durng deployment), FRGDAs poston descrpton, and number of FRGs, but may nclude: Assstng wth schedulng/coordnatng unt pre-deployment and reunon actvtes Schedulng and coordnatng FRG DEPLOYMENT SUPPORT famly readness tranng or unt ASSISTANTS (FRGDA) sponsored tranng for Solders and The Famly Readness Group Deployfamles ment Support Assstant (FRGDA) Workng wth RDC to provde FRG (referred to as Moblzaton and leaders wth tmely and accurate Deployment Assstant n the Reserve nformaton (e.g., emal all FRG Component) s a pad poston suleaders) pervsed by the unt commander. In Helpng develop and dstrbute the actve component, the number unt newsletters, announcements, and flyers of FRGDAs vares across dvsons/
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Coordnatng vdeo teleconferences between deployed Solders and famles Mantanng a lst of FRG leaders n the dvson Assstng n establshng and updatng FRG rosters Coordnatng FRG events across corps/dvson/brgade Identfyng POCs and obtanng nformaton on communty resources Provdng referrals to communty agences (such as ACS, Chaplan, Socal Work Servce, etc.) Helpng FRGs wth producng newsletters, flyers, and actvty calendars; submsson of volunteer forms; schedulng and coordnatng FRG meetngs and events; arrangng guest speakers for FRG meetngs or events; and FRG malngs.
Volunteer Management
Leadng an FRG s not expected to be a one-person job. A team of dedcated, carng volunteers wll be needed to support the FRG leader n operatng a successful FRG and supportng famles. The key s to find creatve ways to get everyone nvolved and excted about partcpatng n the FRG at some level. IDENTIFYING VOLUNTEERS FRG Volunteer Positions. To determne what postons are needed to run the FRG, consder the commands vson for famly readness, deployment tmetable, companys specfic needs, scope of FRG operatons to be
carred out, and geographcal dsperson of famly members. The followng s a suggested lst of volunteer postons and charpersons for commttees that can help an FRG run smoothly and effectvely. All of these ndvduals would report to the FRG leader except where noted: FRG Fund Manager and Alternate(treasurer), serves as custodan of the FRGs nformal fund. (Note: Ths s a requred poston.) (Reports to FRG leader and company commander) Phone Tree Chairperson organzes the phone tree and emal lst, dentfies and supervses phone tree key callers. Phone Tree Key Callers mantans regular contact wth assgned famles; passes along offical nformaton and provdes other nformaton to famles. (Note: These volunteers are essental.) (Reports to Phone Tree Charperson or FRG leader) FRG Recorder(secretary), mantans accurate mnutes of meetngs and dstrbutes nformaton and correspondence to the FRG leader and newsletter edtor. FRG Newsletter Editor coordnates newsletter preparaton, publshng, and dstrbuton. (Note: In some cases, the newsletter may be handled at the battalon level.) (Reports to company commander and FRG leader) vFRG Coordinatorcoordnates wth FRG leader and other approprate ndvduals to
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Coordnatng vdeo teleconferences between deployed Solders and famles Mantanng a lst of FRG leaders n the dvson Assstng n establshng and updatng FRG rosters Coordnatng FRG events across corps/dvson/brgade Identfyng POCs and obtanng nformaton on communty resources Provdng referrals to communty agences (such as ACS, Chaplan, Socal Work Servce, etc.) Helpng FRGs wth producng newsletters, flyers, and actvty calendars; submsson of volunteer forms; schedulng and coordnatng FRG meetngs and events; arrangng guest speakers for FRG meetngs or events; and FRG malngs.
Volunteer Management
Leadng an FRG s not expected to be a one-person job. A team of dedcated, carng volunteers wll be needed to support the FRG leader n operatng a successful FRG and supportng famles. The key s to find creatve ways to get everyone nvolved and excted about partcpatng n the FRG at some level. IDENTIFYING VOLUNTEERS FRG Volunteer Positions. To determne what postons are needed to run the FRG, consder the commands vson for famly readness, deployment tmetable, companys specfic needs, scope of FRG operatons to be
carred out, and geographcal dsperson of famly members. The followng s a suggested lst of volunteer postons and charpersons for commttees that can help an FRG run smoothly and effectvely. All of these ndvduals would report to the FRG leader except where noted: FRG Fund Manager and Alternate(treasurer), serves as custodan of the FRGs nformal fund. (Note: Ths s a requred poston.) (Reports to FRG leader and company commander) Phone Tree Chairperson organzes the phone tree and emal lst, dentfies and supervses phone tree key callers. Phone Tree Key Callers mantans regular contact wth assgned famles; passes along offical nformaton and provdes other nformaton to famles. (Note: These volunteers are essental.) (Reports to Phone Tree Charperson or FRG leader) FRG Recorder(secretary), mantans accurate mnutes of meetngs and dstrbutes nformaton and correspondence to the FRG leader and newsletter edtor. FRG Newsletter Editor coordnates newsletter preparaton, publshng, and dstrbuton. (Note: In some cases, the newsletter may be handled at the battalon level.) (Reports to company commander and FRG leader) vFRG Coordinatorcoordnates wth FRG leader and other approprate ndvduals to
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prepare postngs on FRG actvtes, FRG announceTIP ments, and educaton H Co-Leader Option nformaton for famles. In these times of rapid, unpredictable and These postngs are lengthy deployments, leading an FRG for gven to the command. an extended period of time can be over(Note: The command wll whelming and an FRG leader can easily prepare postngs perburn out. One option to managing the role tanng to nformaton is to have a co-leader. A co-leader can on deployed unt. The assist in providing leadership of the FRG, unt commander or RDC oversee particular FRG activities, help get revews all proposed individuals involved in FRG activities, or postngs and ensures serve as an advisor or assistant, the approved postngs depending upon how the co-leadership are made to the vFRG role is defined. This help in sharing the web ste. In some nburden can reduce some of the stress. stances, the FRGDA may be assgned the admnSplitting leadership can have some drawstratve responsblty backs, unless steps are taken to define of puttng the postngs and create a working partnership relaon the vFRG web ste.) tionship. With a co-leader it is important (Reports to company to talk to each other regularly. Agree on commander and FRG what areas and activities each of you will leader) supervise and how decisions on Special Events important issues will be made. Chairpersonplans, organzes, and executes Childcare Chairpersonensures FRG actvtes and speacceptable chldcare for FRG cal events. meetngs and specal events. Hospitality/Welcome Based on the needs of the FRG and Committee Chairperson the number of volunteers wllng to contacts and welcomes all new help, other volunteer postons may Solders and famles to the be created such as food commttee company, helpng them find charperson, youth commttee needed resources. charperson, or FRG co-leader. Publicity Chairpersonnforms Solders and famly members of FRG Committees and Other upcomng FRG actvtes. Activities. Whle the prevous Fundraiser Chairpersonmansecton mostly talked about volunages nternal FRG fundrasng teers who wll serve n mportant actvtes for FRG nformal fund. leadershp postons provdng (Reports to FRG leader)
prepare postngs on FRG actvtes, FRG announceTIP ments, and educaton H Co-Leader Option nformaton for famles. In these times of rapid, unpredictable and These postngs are lengthy deployments, leading an FRG for gven to the command. an extended period of time can be over(Note: The command wll whelming and an FRG leader can easily prepare postngs perburn out. One option to managing the role tanng to nformaton is to have a co-leader. A co-leader can on deployed unt. The assist in providing leadership of the FRG, unt commander or RDC oversee particular FRG activities, help get revews all proposed individuals involved in FRG activities, or postngs and ensures serve as an advisor or assistant, the approved postngs depending upon how the co-leadership are made to the vFRG role is defined. This help in sharing the web ste. In some nburden can reduce some of the stress. stances, the FRGDA may be assgned the admnSplitting leadership can have some drawstratve responsblty backs, unless steps are taken to define of puttng the postngs and create a working partnership relaon the vFRG web ste.) tionship. With a co-leader it is important (Reports to company to talk to each other regularly. Agree on commander and FRG what areas and activities each of you will leader) supervise and how decisions on Special Events important issues will be made. Chairpersonplans, organzes, and executes Childcare Chairpersonensures FRG actvtes and speacceptable chldcare for FRG cal events. meetngs and specal events. Hospitality/Welcome Based on the needs of the FRG and Committee Chairperson the number of volunteers wllng to contacts and welcomes all new help, other volunteer postons may Solders and famles to the be created such as food commttee company, helpng them find charperson, youth commttee needed resources. charperson, or FRG co-leader. Publicity Chairpersonnforms Solders and famly members of FRG Committees and Other upcomng FRG actvtes. Activities. Whle the prevous Fundraiser Chairpersonmansecton mostly talked about volunages nternal FRG fundrasng teers who wll serve n mportant actvtes for FRG nformal fund. leadershp postons provdng (Reports to FRG leader)
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oversght on specfic FRG operatonal actvtes (or commttees), volunteers are also needed to serve on commttees and to carry out other FRG actvtes. For example, volunteers wllng to help wth specal events wll be needed.
For ALL volunteers servng n the key FRG leadershp postons, the FRG leader must ensure the volunteer does the followng: 1) completes a Volunteer Agreement (DD Form 2793), 2) receves a poston descrpton, 3) n processes wth the local Army Communty Servce, Famly RECRUITING AND TRAINING Programs Office, or Army Volunteer VOLUNTEERS Corps Coordnator and MoblzaThere are many ways to recrut ton and Deployment Program, 4) volunteers, but the most effectve mantans a record of volunteer way s smply to ask ndvduals to hours on the Volunteer Management volunteer. On the famly readness Informaton System or on a form for nformaton sheet, famly members recordng volunteer hours, and 5) have an opportunty to ndcate completes tranng as needed (see what areas or ways they would be tranng resources box on page 33). wllng to assst the FRG. Another (Note: If a mnor volunteers, then a drect approach s to decde who parental permsson form must be mght be best suted to handle a completed.) For forms and gudance partcular task and ask the ndvdual on these volunteer matters, consult about performng the task. However, AR 608-1 as well as one of the folremember that ndvduals who are lowng offices: the Army Volunteer not located n your geographcal Corps Coordnator at a mltary area can perform mportant funcnstallaton, the Natonal Guard State tons such as servng as newsletter Famly Program Coordnator, or the edtor. Army Reserve Famly Program Office. Informaton s also avalable from the Durng recrutng, ndvduals may Army Volunteer Program at ask What do I need to do? and http://www.MyArmyLfeToo.com, How long do I need to do t? A word of caution: All individuals Be prepared to provde ths who volunteer to help do not need to nformaton. Present a wrtten register. For example, a FRG memdescrpton so that ndvduals ber who volunteers to bring food wll know what ther dutes wll to an FRG event does not need to be f they accept. For key FRG register. Job descriptions and regisvolunteer postons, sample FRG tration should only be conducted for volunteer poston descrptons those individuals who want to serve are provded n the Operaton in a key official capacity and seek READY Smart Book for the FRG credit for their volunteer hours. leaders use.
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oversght on specfic FRG operatonal actvtes (or commttees), volunteers are also needed to serve on commttees and to carry out other FRG actvtes. For example, volunteers wllng to help wth specal events wll be needed.
For ALL volunteers servng n the key FRG leadershp postons, the FRG leader must ensure the volunteer does the followng: 1) completes a Volunteer Agreement (DD Form 2793), 2) receves a poston descrpton, 3) n processes wth the local Army Communty Servce, Famly RECRUITING AND TRAINING Programs Office, or Army Volunteer VOLUNTEERS Corps Coordnator and MoblzaThere are many ways to recrut ton and Deployment Program, 4) volunteers, but the most effectve mantans a record of volunteer way s smply to ask ndvduals to hours on the Volunteer Management volunteer. On the famly readness Informaton System or on a form for nformaton sheet, famly members recordng volunteer hours, and 5) have an opportunty to ndcate completes tranng as needed (see what areas or ways they would be tranng resources box on page 33). wllng to assst the FRG. Another (Note: If a mnor volunteers, then a drect approach s to decde who parental permsson form must be mght be best suted to handle a completed.) For forms and gudance partcular task and ask the ndvdual on these volunteer matters, consult about performng the task. However, AR 608-1 as well as one of the folremember that ndvduals who are lowng offices: the Army Volunteer not located n your geographcal Corps Coordnator at a mltary area can perform mportant funcnstallaton, the Natonal Guard State tons such as servng as newsletter Famly Program Coordnator, or the edtor. Army Reserve Famly Program Office. Informaton s also avalable from the Durng recrutng, ndvduals may Army Volunteer Program at ask What do I need to do? and http://www.MyArmyLfeToo.com, How long do I need to do t? A word of caution: All individuals Be prepared to provde ths who volunteer to help do not need to nformaton. Present a wrtten register. For example, a FRG memdescrpton so that ndvduals ber who volunteers to bring food wll know what ther dutes wll to an FRG event does not need to be f they accept. For key FRG register. Job descriptions and regisvolunteer postons, sample FRG tration should only be conducted for volunteer poston descrptons those individuals who want to serve are provded n the Operaton in a key official capacity and seek READY Smart Book for the FRG credit for their volunteer hours. leaders use.
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www.arfp.org, and www.guardfamly.org. FRG volunteers who regster are classfied as statutory volunteers are elgble for rembursement of authorzed ncdental expenses, followng the procedures establshed n the unts FRG Budget SOP. Once volunteers have been recruted, t s mportant to nform volunteers of the company commanders and FRG leaders expectatons. When dscussng expectatons, be clear about the parameters regardng to what degree, and when, volunteers may act ndependently. Address mportant ssues such as punctualty, atttude, dealng wth command and famles, attre, confidentalty, communcaton wth FRG leader and commttee charpersons, communcaton between FRG leader and FRG volunteers, and rembursement of volunteer expenses. Sample Talking Points on Expectations of FRG Volunteers
Be punctual and dependable. Volunteers need to be on tme and dependable. Ths s partcularly mportant for key callers, who need to make calls to famles n a tmely manner. When you, as a volunteer, cannot carry out a commtment, notfy your supervsor or FRG leader. Keep n mnd that you are not expected to make commtments that wll put your own famlys needs at rsk. Be friendly and courteous. Be helpful and mantan a courteous atttude when dealng wth the chan of command, Solders, famly members, and other FRG volunteers. Be flexible. Gven the hgh and changng demands on the mltary and unpredctable nature of deployments, we need to be able to adapt to change wth understandng and calmness. Know your role. The FRG (and n partcular key callers) s not expected to solve all problems, but s expected to provde accurate nformaton and/or referrals. Know when to refer ndvduals to the approprate agency. Also do not hestate to seek gudance and assstance wth referrals when tryng to assst wth ssues outsde your professonal knowledge. Follow-up to ensure ndvduals needs were met. Maintain confidentiality. FRG volunteers deal wth problems of a hghly personal nature. Be professonal wth personal nformaton. Gosspng s taboo. Be nonjudgmental. Treat others wth respect and dgnty, regardless of rank. When assstng ndvduals, t s mportant to respect ndvduals decsons. Notify FRG leadership of important issues. Whle t s mportant to be respectful of ndvduals prvacy and senstve to famly problems/ssues, keep the FRG leader nformed of any mportant ssues. By dong so, the FRG can address common and emergng ssues of concern to famles. The FRG leader can also brng certan ssues to the attenton of command or communty agences, as approprate. Take care of yourself. There wll lkely be tmes when you may feel great stress or overwhelmed. Take the tme to take care of yourself and your famly. Mantan a balance n your lfe.
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www.arfp.org, and www.guardfamly.org. FRG volunteers who regster are classfied as statutory volunteers are elgble for rembursement of authorzed ncdental expenses, followng the procedures establshed n the unts FRG Budget SOP. Once volunteers have been recruted, t s mportant to nform volunteers of the company commanders and FRG leaders expectatons. When dscussng expectatons, be clear about the parameters regardng to what degree, and when, volunteers may act ndependently. Address mportant ssues such as punctualty, atttude, dealng wth command and famles, attre, confidentalty, communcaton wth FRG leader and commttee charpersons, communcaton between FRG leader and FRG volunteers, and rembursement of volunteer expenses. Sample Talking Points on Expectations of FRG Volunteers
Be punctual and dependable. Volunteers need to be on tme and dependable. Ths s partcularly mportant for key callers, who need to make calls to famles n a tmely manner. When you, as a volunteer, cannot carry out a commtment, notfy your supervsor or FRG leader. Keep n mnd that you are not expected to make commtments that wll put your own famlys needs at rsk. Be friendly and courteous. Be helpful and mantan a courteous atttude when dealng wth the chan of command, Solders, famly members, and other FRG volunteers. Be flexible. Gven the hgh and changng demands on the mltary and unpredctable nature of deployments, we need to be able to adapt to change wth understandng and calmness. Know your role. The FRG (and n partcular key callers) s not expected to solve all problems, but s expected to provde accurate nformaton and/or referrals. Know when to refer ndvduals to the approprate agency. Also do not hestate to seek gudance and assstance wth referrals when tryng to assst wth ssues outsde your professonal knowledge. Follow-up to ensure ndvduals needs were met. Maintain confidentiality. FRG volunteers deal wth problems of a hghly personal nature. Be professonal wth personal nformaton. Gosspng s taboo. Be nonjudgmental. Treat others wth respect and dgnty, regardless of rank. When assstng ndvduals, t s mportant to respect ndvduals decsons. Notify FRG leadership of important issues. Whle t s mportant to be respectful of ndvduals prvacy and senstve to famly problems/ssues, keep the FRG leader nformed of any mportant ssues. By dong so, the FRG can address common and emergng ssues of concern to famles. The FRG leader can also brng certan ssues to the attenton of command or communty agences, as approprate. Take care of yourself. There wll lkely be tmes when you may feel great stress or overwhelmed. Take the tme to take care of yourself and your famly. Mantan a balance n your lfe.
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In addton, dentfy the tranng volunteers need and provde them wth the approprate materals from the Operaton READY Smart Book and/or refer them to the approprate resource.
In addton, dentfy the tranng volunteers need and provde them wth the approprate materals from the Operaton READY Smart Book and/or refer them to the approprate resource.
Training Resources for FRG Volunteers

Army Volunteer Corps Coordinator (AVCC). Offers general sklls tranng to volunteers. (Note: ACS and Famly Programs Moblzaton and Deployment managers and assstants provde sklls tranng for specfic FRG actvtes.) Operation READY Smart Book. The Operaton READY Smart Book contans tranng materals that may be used by the FRG leader to provde specfic tranng to FRG volunteers such as key callers. In addton, there are resource materals and nformaton sheets whch can be gven to approprate FRG volunteers. For example, the Operaton READY Smart Book contans a Key Caller Handbook. Another example s a Copng wth Stress tps sheet that mght be gven to all FRG volunteers. Army Community Service (ACS). ACS provdes FRG volunteer orentaton tranng through the Moblzaton and Deployment Program. Volunteers servng as key callers or FRG co-leader can also receve tranng through a garrson ACS. Handbooks wll be dstrbuted at ther tranng. Those FRG volunteers who are n leadershp postons (.e., commttee charpersons) can seek gudance on managng volunteers. CYS. CYS through ther Volunteer Chld Care n a Unt Settng (VCCUS) program can provde tranng to volunteers so that the FRG can offer chld care at FRG events. Army National Guard State Family Program Office and Army Reserve Regional Readiness Command Family Programs Office. Volunteers servng as FRG leaders, co-leaders and key callers can get tranng from these sources to become famlar wth ssues and resources related to Guard and Reserve famles. Army Family Team Building Program/ Guard Family Team Building. Ths three-level tranng program comprses 43 classes that help ndvduals learn about mltary culture and adjust to mltary lfe. Level I s desgned for new Solders and spouses. Level II focuses on basc leadershp sklls whereas Level III offers advanced leadershp. Ths tranng program s avalable onlne and as classroom based tranng. FRG volunteers can use ths tranng to become famlar wth the mltary and develop partcular sklls.
Training Resources for FRG Volunteers

Army Volunteer Corps Coordinator (AVCC). Offers general sklls tranng to volunteers. (Note: ACS and Famly Programs Moblzaton and Deployment managers and assstants provde sklls tranng for specfic FRG actvtes.) Operation READY Smart Book. The Operaton READY Smart Book contans tranng materals that may be used by the FRG leader to provde specfic tranng to FRG volunteers such as key callers. In addton, there are resource materals and nformaton sheets whch can be gven to approprate FRG volunteers. For example, the Operaton READY Smart Book contans a Key Caller Handbook. Another example s a Copng wth Stress tps sheet that mght be gven to all FRG volunteers. Army Community Service (ACS). ACS provdes FRG volunteer orentaton tranng through the Moblzaton and Deployment Program. Volunteers servng as key callers or FRG co-leader can also receve tranng through a garrson ACS. Handbooks wll be dstrbuted at ther tranng. Those FRG volunteers who are n leadershp postons (.e., commttee charpersons) can seek gudance on managng volunteers. CYS. CYS through ther Volunteer Chld Care n a Unt Settng (VCCUS) program can provde tranng to volunteers so that the FRG can offer chld care at FRG events. Army National Guard State Family Program Office and Army Reserve Regional Readiness Command Family Programs Office. Volunteers servng as FRG leaders, co-leaders and key callers can get tranng from these sources to become famlar wth ssues and resources related to Guard and Reserve famles. Army Family Team Building Program/ Guard Family Team Building. Ths three-level tranng program comprses 43 classes that help ndvduals learn about mltary culture and adjust to mltary lfe. Level I s desgned for new Solders and spouses. Level II focuses on basc leadershp sklls whereas Level III offers advanced leadershp. Ths tranng program s avalable onlne and as classroom based tranng. FRG volunteers can use ths tranng to become famlar wth the mltary and develop partcular sklls.
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MANAGING AND SUPERVISING FRG VOLUNTEERS As the supervsor to FRG volunteers, t s mportant to mantan contact and oversee volunteers performance. Mantanng ongong communcaton wth FRG volunteers and commttees s also mportant to montor how well specfic actvtes are beng carred out and how well the FRG s supportng famles. If key FRG volunteers are not co-located wth the FRG leader, the FRG leader wll need to manage volunteers by telephone (both ndvdual and conference calls), emal, and forum on vFRG web ste. If FRG volunteers are co-located, then a combnaton of meetngs and telephone and emal communcatons can be used. RECOGNIZING VOLUNTEERS Recognzng volunteers s an mportant aspect to mantanng a group of enthusastc and commtted volunteers who support the FRG. Creatng an envronment n whch FRG volunteers are well recognzed and feel supported by the FRG and company leadershp can also be a
motvatng factor for famly members to be nclned to volunteer n the future. Recognton needs to be provded n dfferent ways that ncludes both formal methods (e.g., certficates, pns, and awards) and nformal methods ( e.g., sayng Thanks! or Im glad youre here, or You really dd a great job.). Suggestons on ways to recognze volunteers nclude: publc prase newsletter artcles thank-you notes honorng volunteers at a specal luncheon, party, or FRG meetng announcements on bulletn boards or va emal
MANAGING AND SUPERVISING FRG VOLUNTEERS As the supervsor to FRG volunteers, t s mportant to mantan contact and oversee volunteers performance. Mantanng ongong communcaton wth FRG volunteers and commttees s also mportant to montor how well specfic actvtes are beng carred out and how well the FRG s supportng famles. If key FRG volunteers are not co-located wth the FRG leader, the FRG leader wll need to manage volunteers by telephone (both ndvdual and conference calls), emal, and forum on vFRG web ste. If FRG volunteers are co-located, then a combnaton of meetngs and telephone and emal communcatons can be used. RECOGNIZING VOLUNTEERS Recognzng volunteers s an mportant aspect to mantanng a group of enthusastc and commtted volunteers who support the FRG. Creatng an envronment n whch FRG volunteers are well recognzed and feel supported by the FRG and company leadershp can also be a
motvatng factor for famly members to be nclned to volunteer n the future. Recognton needs to be provded n dfferent ways that ncludes both formal methods (e.g., certficates, pns, and awards) and nformal methods ( e.g., sayng Thanks! or Im glad youre here, or You really dd a great job.). Suggestons on ways to recognze volunteers nclude: publc prase newsletter artcles thank-you notes honorng volunteers at a specal luncheon, party, or FRG meetng announcements on bulletn boards or va emal
TIP H All volunteers need to be

recognized! Volunteers like to be appreciated for what they do for the FRG. When recognizing an individual, it is important to point out something of importance such as the job/task performed, quality of performance, accomplishment, or desirable character trait or ability. It is a wonderful boost to a volunteers self esteem. Recognition is easy to give so give it often. Also take advantage of annual volunteer recognition programs.
TIP H All volunteers need to be

recognized! Volunteers like to be appreciated for what they do for the FRG. When recognizing an individual, it is important to point out something of importance such as the job/task performed, quality of performance, accomplishment, or desirable character trait or ability. It is a wonderful boost to a volunteers self esteem. Recognition is easy to give so give it often. Also take advantage of annual volunteer recognition programs.
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meda coveragelocal and post newspapers certficates of apprecaton. Remember copes of certficates and awards and volunteer servce records need to be mantaned as dscussed n the Admnstratve Matters secton (see page 20). MENTORING FUTURE FRG LEADERS Durng the course of workng wth dfferent FRG volunteers, t may become apparent to you who mght be a good FRG leader n the future. Consder mentorng ths ndvdual. Alternatvely, spend some tme talkng wth and helpng the next FRG leader that the company commander assgns. It s mportant to pass on the knowledge ganed and lessons learned to ensure a smooth transton and to assst the next FRG leader n ther efforts.
meda coveragelocal and post newspapers certficates of apprecaton. Remember copes of certficates and awards and volunteer servce records need to be mantaned as dscussed n the Admnstratve Matters secton (see page 20). MENTORING FUTURE FRG LEADERS Durng the course of workng wth dfferent FRG volunteers, t may become apparent to you who mght be a good FRG leader n the future. Consder mentorng ths ndvdual. Alternatvely, spend some tme talkng wth and helpng the next FRG leader that the company commander assgns. It s mportant to pass on the knowledge ganed and lessons learned to ensure a smooth transton and to assst the next FRG leader n ther efforts.
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3.3 Management of FRG Activities
3.3 Management of FRG Activities
This section specifies the required FRG activities, per Army guidance. Procedural details on how to perform these activities are provided here. However, the specific information and assistance provided when these activities are performed in each phase of the deployment cycle are presented in Part 4 of this handbook. This section also addresses the following issues: referrals, FRG participation, and several situations that FRGs may encounter.
This section specifies the required FRG activities, per Army guidance. Procedural details on how to perform these activities are provided here. However, the specific information and assistance provided when these activities are performed in each phase of the deployment cycle are presented in Part 4 of this handbook. This section also addresses the following issues: referrals, FRG participation, and several situations that FRGs may encounter.
Identifying FRG Activities Needed

Army gudance stpulates that certan FRG actvtes are essental. Further, FRGs are known to conduct other actvtes, some of whch are dentfied n the table on the opposte page. The type and scope of actvtes an FRG conducts depends on a large number of factors, ncludng: commanders budget for FRG msson actvtes dentfied needs of unt Solders, cvlan employees, and ther famles command nterest and emphass number of FRG members tme, energy, and creatvty of FRG membershp make up of the FRG (e.g., the percentage of sngle Solders, number of years Solders and ther famly have served wth the mltary,
number of famles wth young chldren, and other famly composton factors) unts tranng and deployment schedule (.e., whether the unt s n pre/post deployment, deployed, or n a tran-up/preparaton phase). For these reasons, t s mportant to determne wth command what actvtes (or level of effort n each area) your FRG wll provde. Keep n mnd that the FRG may be servng famly members who are geographcally dspersed across a wde area or a number of states. Also remember that the FRG s provdng nformaton to a broader array of famly members than just spouses and chldren. For these reasons, the FRGs communcaton systems wll need to be strong and wll lkely be the prmary focus of support actvty wth certan famly members.
Identifying FRG Activities Needed

Army gudance stpulates that certan FRG actvtes are essental. Further, FRGs are known to conduct other actvtes, some of whch are dentfied n the table on the opposte page. The type and scope of actvtes an FRG conducts depends on a large number of factors, ncludng: commanders budget for FRG msson actvtes dentfied needs of unt Solders, cvlan employees, and ther famles command nterest and emphass number of FRG members tme, energy, and creatvty of FRG membershp make up of the FRG (e.g., the percentage of sngle Solders, number of years Solders and ther famly have served wth the mltary,
number of famles wth young chldren, and other famly composton factors) unts tranng and deployment schedule (.e., whether the unt s n pre/post deployment, deployed, or n a tran-up/preparaton phase). For these reasons, t s mportant to determne wth command what actvtes (or level of effort n each area) your FRG wll provde. Keep n mnd that the FRG may be servng famly members who are geographcally dspersed across a wde area or a number of states. Also remember that the FRG s provdng nformaton to a broader array of famly members than just spouses and chldren. For these reasons, the FRGs communcaton systems wll need to be strong and wll lkely be the prmary focus of support actvty wth certan famly members.
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A word of caution.
The FRG does not serve as a: babysitting service taxi service financial institution professional counseling agency part of the casualty notification process religious activity social club/rumor mill.
A word of caution.
The FRG does not serve as a: babysitting service taxi service financial institution professional counseling agency part of the casualty notification process religious activity social club/rumor mill.
Communicating With Army Families

Ongong communcaton wth famly members durng all stages of the deployment cycle s mportant to mantanng the flow of nformaton from command to famles. Workng wth company leadershp (ncludng the RDC) wll be crtcal to obtanng mportant news from the unt that the FRG leader can then pass on to famly members through these communcaton actvtes. Gudance on each of these actvtes s detaled n ths secton. Usng multple communcaton methods s encouraged and s necessary to reach all famly members. Dscuss wth the company commander to what extent each of these methods wll be used based on the number of FRG volunteers avalable and geographcal dsperson of famly members.
TIP H In a time where there is high

media coverage of many military missions, keeping the lines of communication open and sharing accurate information in a timely manner can greatly help to control stories or rumors. In addition, the FRG leader will need to convey the message to both FRG volunteers and family members that gossip and rumors have no place in the FRG. It will be important to emphasize to individuals not to pass on stories that have not been confirmed with a person in authority (RDC, company commander, military leadership).
Communicating With Army Families

Ongong communcaton wth famly members durng all stages of the deployment cycle s mportant to mantanng the flow of nformaton from command to famles. Workng wth company leadershp (ncludng the RDC) wll be crtcal to obtanng mportant news from the unt that the FRG leader can then pass on to famly members through these communcaton actvtes. Gudance on each of these actvtes s detaled n ths secton. Usng multple communcaton methods s encouraged and s necessary to reach all famly members. Dscuss wth the company commander to what extent each of these methods wll be used based on the number of FRG volunteers avalable and geographcal dsperson of famly members.
TIP H In a time where there is high

media coverage of many military missions, keeping the lines of communication open and sharing accurate information in a timely manner can greatly help to control stories or rumors. In addition, the FRG leader will need to convey the message to both FRG volunteers and family members that gossip and rumors have no place in the FRG. It will be important to emphasize to individuals not to pass on stories that have not been confirmed with a person in authority (RDC, company commander, military leadership).
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FRG MEETINGS FRG meetngs are an opportunty to share mportant nformaton wth famly members, provde educaton on mportant topcs, and foster connectons wth famly members. Meetngs are also an opportunty for gettng famly readness nformaton forms completed. However, wth famles beng geographcally dspersed, workng outsde of the home, and for other reasons, keep n mnd that famles may not be able to attend meetngs. It s therefore mportant to determne early on the degree to whch meetngs should be held. Here are some general gudelnes on conductng meetngs: Identfy whether there are any ssues of concern that need to be addressed; consult wth company leadershp as approprate pror to the meetng to determne how ths ssue wll be addressed by the company or FRG Assess FRG needs (e.g., dscuss need for volunteers, branstorm to get nput from partcpants on topcs or actvtes of nterest to FRG membershp) Identfy FRG actvtes to be
publczed (e.g., vFRG, newsletter, holday party) Establsh the purpose of the meetng Develop an agenda Determne how long the meetng wll be and establsh a tmelne for the dfferent segments of the meetng (e.g., welcome, guest speaker, announcements, concludng remarks) Determne what resources wll be needed (e.g., nterpreters, chld care, food, pens and other supples, musc, equpment, transportaton, parkng) Determne what the socal component wll be (e.g., potluck dnner, award ceremony, set asde tme for people to talk amongst themselves) Select a locaton Publcze the meetng Identfy what materals wll be dstrbuted or need to have on hand (e.g., famly readness nformaton forms, FRG newsletter, sgn n sheets, communty resource drectory, door przes f desred) Arrange for company or mltary leadershp to speak, f desred or a guest speaker, f needed.
FRG MEETINGS FRG meetngs are an opportunty to share mportant nformaton wth famly members, provde educaton on mportant topcs, and foster connectons wth famly members. Meetngs are also an opportunty for gettng famly readness nformaton forms completed. However, wth famles beng geographcally dspersed, workng outsde of the home, and for other reasons, keep n mnd that famles may not be able to attend meetngs. It s therefore mportant to determne early on the degree to whch meetngs should be held. Here are some general gudelnes on conductng meetngs: Identfy whether there are any ssues of concern that need to be addressed; consult wth company leadershp as approprate pror to the meetng to determne how ths ssue wll be addressed by the company or FRG Assess FRG needs (e.g., dscuss need for volunteers, branstorm to get nput from partcpants on topcs or actvtes of nterest to FRG membershp) Identfy FRG actvtes to be
publczed (e.g., vFRG, newsletter, holday party) Establsh the purpose of the meetng Develop an agenda Determne how long the meetng wll be and establsh a tmelne for the dfferent segments of the meetng (e.g., welcome, guest speaker, announcements, concludng remarks) Determne what resources wll be needed (e.g., nterpreters, chld care, food, pens and other supples, musc, equpment, transportaton, parkng) Determne what the socal component wll be (e.g., potluck dnner, award ceremony, set asde tme for people to talk amongst themselves) Select a locaton Publcze the meetng Identfy what materals wll be dstrbuted or need to have on hand (e.g., famly readness nformaton forms, FRG newsletter, sgn n sheets, communty resource drectory, door przes f desred) Arrange for company or mltary leadershp to speak, f desred or a guest speaker, f needed.
H TIP Asking and/or surveying FRG membership periodically to

identify issues and activities of interest is important to finding out what needs to be done at FRG meetings (and other activities). When FRG members are given the opportunity to provide input, then they will feel more involved and engaged in the FRG. Further, when FRG meetings meet memberships needs, FRG members are more likely to view FRG meetings as worthwhile and thus be more inclined to participate. Both are critical to sustaining the FRG.
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H TIP Asking and/or surveying FRG membership periodically to

identify issues and activities of interest is important to finding out what needs to be done at FRG meetings (and other activities). When FRG members are given the opportunity to provide input, then they will feel more involved and engaged in the FRG. Further, when FRG meetings meet memberships needs, FRG members are more likely to view FRG meetings as worthwhile and thus be more inclined to participate. Both are critical to sustaining the FRG.
FRG NEWSLETTER The purposes of an FRG newsletter are to relay nformaton from the commander, hghlght mltary and communty resources, advertse upcomng FRG events, address ssues of concern, and buld camaradere. Gven that FRG newsletters relay nformaton from the command, they are done under the drecton of, and must be approved by, the company commander (or durng deployment, the rear detachment commander). The company commander decdes how frequently the newsletter wll be publshed. Further, accordng to AR 608-1, Appendx J, the FRG newsletter must be conducted accordng to the companys Standard Operatng Procedure (SOP) on the preparaton, prntng and dstrbuton of FRG newsletters.
Preparation of FRG Newsletter. Whle the companys SOP wll address preparaton of the FRG newsletter, here are some mportant thngs to know. The company commander (or RDC) determnes what offical nformaton can be ncluded and wll provde ths nformaton. Some offical nformaton, such as tranng or deployment schedules though of nterest to famles may be classfied; thus, the company commander (or RDC) wll not allow ths nformaton to be ncluded. When malng the newsletter, the FRG wll need to state whether the newsletter contans offical, unoffical, or both types of nformaton. For ths reason, the table below s provded so that FRG volunteers workng on the FRG newsletter can be advsed accordngly.
FRG NEWSLETTER The purposes of an FRG newsletter are to relay nformaton from the commander, hghlght mltary and communty resources, advertse upcomng FRG events, address ssues of concern, and buld camaradere. Gven that FRG newsletters relay nformaton from the command, they are done under the drecton of, and must be approved by, the company commander (or durng deployment, the rear detachment commander). The company commander decdes how frequently the newsletter wll be publshed. Further, accordng to AR 608-1, Appendx J, the FRG newsletter must be conducted accordng to the companys Standard Operatng Procedure (SOP) on the preparaton, prntng and dstrbuton of FRG newsletters.
Preparation of FRG Newsletter. Whle the companys SOP wll address preparaton of the FRG newsletter, here are some mportant thngs to know. The company commander (or RDC) determnes what offical nformaton can be ncluded and wll provde ths nformaton. Some offical nformaton, such as tranng or deployment schedules though of nterest to famles may be classfied; thus, the company commander (or RDC) wll not allow ths nformaton to be ncluded. When malng the newsletter, the FRG wll need to state whether the newsletter contans offical, unoffical, or both types of nformaton. For ths reason, the table below s provded so that FRG volunteers workng on the FRG newsletter can be advsed accordngly.
PREPARATION OF FRG NEWSLETTERS

Official Information
Definition: relates to command and mission essential information that the commander believes families should have to be better informed. Official information relates to unit mission and readiness. Examples: tranng schedule nformaton upcomng deployments unt ponts of contact and the chan of concern new Army programs or benefits avalable to famles upcomng garrson events for famles of deployed Solders educatonal nformaton (such as nformaton on the mltary communty, how to budget, where to find medcal care or legal assstance, how to prepare for emergences)
PREPARATION OF FRG NEWSLETTERS

Official Information
Definition: relates to command and mission essential information that the commander believes families should have to be better informed. Official information relates to unit mission and readiness. Examples: tranng schedule nformaton upcomng deployments unt ponts of contact and the chan of concern new Army programs or benefits avalable to famles upcomng garrson events for famles of deployed Solders educatonal nformaton (such as nformaton on the mltary communty, how to budget, where to find medcal care or legal assstance, how to prepare for emergences) 39
Unofficial Information
Definition: Non-mission related information
Unofficial Information
Definition: Non-mission related information
Examples: personal nformaton (e.g., phone numbers, addresses, brth or adopton announcements, brthdays) accomplshments by Solders or famly members FRG member job changes, promotons, and awards FRG fundrasers recpes
Examples: personal nformaton (e.g., phone numbers, addresses, brth or adopton announcements, brthdays) accomplshments by Solders or famly members FRG member job changes, promotons, and awards FRG fundrasers recpes
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Printing the FRG Newsletter. Government paper and prntng supples are authorzed for use to publsh FRG newsletters that relay nformaton from command.
A word of caution.
Copyright laws pertain to original works such as books and novels, poetry, songs, sheet music, photographs, computer software, graphics-anything created that exists as a tangible medium. Using any portion of an authors published or unpublished work without permission is a copyright infringement and subject to lawsuit. Keep in mind that simply giving the author credit does not give protection from copyright infringement. Under the fair use rule of copyright law, you may use limited portions of someones work (including quotes) or reproduce works without getting permission for such purposes as commentary or criticism, a summary of an article or address with quotes for news reporting, teaching, and research. However, material that is in the public domain may be used freely. (For example, Army materials and many government publications and web sites can be used without permission and are not covered under copyright laws.) For more information, check the U.S. Copyright Office at www.copyright.gov.
Distributing the Approved Newsletter. FRG newsletter may be dstrbuted by mal usng the Army or nstallaton Post Office, emal, and/or posted on the companys page on the battalon vFRG web ste. For those famles who do not have access to a computer or nternet connecton, malng the newsletter s essental.
Printing the FRG Newsletter. Government paper and prntng supples are authorzed for use to publsh FRG newsletters that relay nformaton from command.
A word of caution.
Copyright laws pertain to original works such as books and novels, poetry, songs, sheet music, photographs, computer software, graphics-anything created that exists as a tangible medium. Using any portion of an authors published or unpublished work without permission is a copyright infringement and subject to lawsuit. Keep in mind that simply giving the author credit does not give protection from copyright infringement. Under the fair use rule of copyright law, you may use limited portions of someones work (including quotes) or reproduce works without getting permission for such purposes as commentary or criticism, a summary of an article or address with quotes for news reporting, teaching, and research. However, material that is in the public domain may be used freely. (For example, Army materials and many government publications and web sites can be used without permission and are not covered under copyright laws.) For more information, check the U.S. Copyright Office at www.copyright.gov.
Distributing the Approved Newsletter. FRG newsletter may be dstrbuted by mal usng the Army or nstallaton Post Office, emal, and/or posted on the companys page on the battalon vFRG web ste. For those famles who do not have access to a computer or nternet connecton, malng the newsletter s essental.
Guidance on Mailing FRG Newsletters

Postal Regulations limit how much unofficial information may be included in an FRG newsletter. As long as the inclusion of unofficial information does not increase the cost to the Government in printing and mailing the FRG newsletter, does not exceed 20 percent of the printed space used for the official information, and does not include personal wanted/for sale advertisements, some unofficial information may be included in an official FRG newsletter. The FRG newsletter must state whether it contains only official or both official and unofficial types of information. If the newsletter contains both types of information, it should include the following statement: The inclusion of some unofficial information in this FRG newsletter has not increased the costs to the Government, in accordance with DoD 4525.8-M, Official Mail Management Manual. If the inclusion of unoffcial information in the FRG newsletter has increased the costs to the Government, the FRG must use the FRGs Informal Fund to cover the costs.
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Guidance on Mailing FRG Newsletters

Postal Regulations limit how much unofficial information may be included in an FRG newsletter. As long as the inclusion of unofficial information does not increase the cost to the Government in printing and mailing the FRG newsletter, does not exceed 20 percent of the printed space used for the official information, and does not include personal wanted/for sale advertisements, some unofficial information may be included in an official FRG newsletter. The FRG newsletter must state whether it contains only official or both official and unofficial types of information. If the newsletter contains both types of information, it should include the following statement: The inclusion of some unofficial information in this FRG newsletter has not increased the costs to the Government, in accordance with DoD 4525.8-M, Official Mail Management Manual. If the inclusion of unoffcial information in the FRG newsletter has increased the costs to the Government, the FRG must use the FRGs Informal Fund to cover the costs.
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KEY CALLERS Establshng and mantanng a current telephone tree s essental to provdng tmely and accurate nformaton to famles. Reasons for usng the telephone tree range anywhere from plannng socal functons, passng on nformaton about meetngs, deployment tranng, homecomngs, or emergency nformaton. To support ths actvty t s also essental to have a roster of volunteers who wll serve as key callers. When takng on the FRG leader role, t s mportant to find out and montor the status of the telephone tree operatons and ssues of concern or problems experenced and then take the approprate actons necessary. Telephone tree roster. Mantanng an accurate roster of the companys famly contact nformaton s mportant and needs to be done on an ongong bass. Phone tree lsts can be developed from these rosters n a number of dfferent ways n order to group famly members accordng to platoons, geographcal area, or alphabetcally. To make the key callers task manageable, consder settng up the tree such that each key caller s responsble for contactng a small number of famles (.e., between five and 10) and preferably n the same geographcal area to mnmze the volunteers phone expenses. Informaton for the ntal set up of the roster should come from the
FRG Solder/spouse questonnare. People should have the choce of havng ther nformaton posted on a general roster and/or the confidental roster that s gven to the FRG leader. If a spouse strongly ressts gvng the FRG mportant nformaton, then t should be noted, sgned by the spouse and Solder, and the spouse nstructed that her only contact wll be wth the mltary chan of command/rear detachment. Spouses need to be nstructed not to use the roster for any type of recrutment for busness partes or other purposes (Mary Kay, Tupperware etc). A Prvacy statement should be prnted on every type of roster (AR 340-21,023 The Army Prvacy Program). At the company level, updatng the telephone tree roster s a task that can be delegated to the FRG phone tree charperson f one has been assgned. (The RDC or FRGDA can provde the phone tree charperson wth a regularly updated copy of unt rosters.) In general, the telephone tree lst can be updated usng the followng sources: vFRG web ste (see ths secton), company commander or first sergeant, FRG volunteers who have been n regular contact wth famly members (.e., key callers), and completed famly readness nformaton forms. Examples of a phone tree dagram and chan of concern responsbltes can be found n the Operaton Ready Smart Book.
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KEY CALLERS Establshng and mantanng a current telephone tree s essental to provdng tmely and accurate nformaton to famles. Reasons for usng the telephone tree range anywhere from plannng socal functons, passng on nformaton about meetngs, deployment tranng, homecomngs, or emergency nformaton. To support ths actvty t s also essental to have a roster of volunteers who wll serve as key callers. When takng on the FRG leader role, t s mportant to find out and montor the status of the telephone tree operatons and ssues of concern or problems experenced and then take the approprate actons necessary. Telephone tree roster. Mantanng an accurate roster of the companys famly contact nformaton s mportant and needs to be done on an ongong bass. Phone tree lsts can be developed from these rosters n a number of dfferent ways n order to group famly members accordng to platoons, geographcal area, or alphabetcally. To make the key callers task manageable, consder settng up the tree such that each key caller s responsble for contactng a small number of famles (.e., between five and 10) and preferably n the same geographcal area to mnmze the volunteers phone expenses. Informaton for the ntal set up of the roster should come from the
FRG Solder/spouse questonnare. People should have the choce of havng ther nformaton posted on a general roster and/or the confidental roster that s gven to the FRG leader. If a spouse strongly ressts gvng the FRG mportant nformaton, then t should be noted, sgned by the spouse and Solder, and the spouse nstructed that her only contact wll be wth the mltary chan of command/rear detachment. Spouses need to be nstructed not to use the roster for any type of recrutment for busness partes or other purposes (Mary Kay, Tupperware etc). A Prvacy statement should be prnted on every type of roster (AR 340-21,023 The Army Prvacy Program). At the company level, updatng the telephone tree roster s a task that can be delegated to the FRG phone tree charperson f one has been assgned. (The RDC or FRGDA can provde the phone tree charperson wth a regularly updated copy of unt rosters.) In general, the telephone tree lst can be updated usng the followng sources: vFRG web ste (see ths secton), company commander or first sergeant, FRG volunteers who have been n regular contact wth famly members (.e., key callers), and completed famly readness nformaton forms. Examples of a phone tree dagram and chan of concern responsbltes can be found n the Operaton Ready Smart Book.
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Roster of Key Callers. The FRG leader n coordnaton wth the FRG phone tree charperson, f assgned, should revew the roster of key callers to dentfy when new key callers need to be recruted. The recrutment of these volunteers can be delegated to the phone tree charperson, f avalable. The responsbltes of the key caller are to: provde accurate nformaton, mantan confidentalty, assst famles n resolvng problems, communcate wth FRG leader (or charperson) ssues of concern, and mantan phone records (e.g., phone tree log form, famly contact form). A Key Caller Handbook and sample forms are provded n the Operaton READY Smart Book to assst volunteers n ths role. Addtonal tranng should be arranged and offered to these volunteers as necessary. Phone tree operations and protocols. The box opposte descrbes the basc operatons of a telephone tree. However, procedures and tools should be revsed and adjusted based on company needs and experences.
How Does a Phone Tree Work?

The FRG leader calls the phone tree chairperson (or each of the key callers if a chairperson is not available) to relay command or FRG information. The phone tree chairperson, in turn, contacts each key caller and passes on the message. When all calls are completed to their branch of the phone tree, each key caller contacts the phone tree chairperson or FRG leader and reports the outcomes of the calls. The process is reversed when family members contact their key callers. For guidance on handling a crisis call, key callers can use the Decision Diagram for Helping a Distressed Person, which is included in the Operation READY Smart Book. If a key caller cant answer a question or concern, the key caller contacts the phone tree chairperson or FRG leader. The key caller logs every call on a phone tree log form (a sample of this form is located in the Operation READY Smart Book) and, when appropriate on the Key Caller Family Contact Form, for record keeping purposes. The key caller is to report any significant event or information to the phone tree chairperson or FRG leader.
Roster of Key Callers. The FRG leader n coordnaton wth the FRG phone tree charperson, f assgned, should revew the roster of key callers to dentfy when new key callers need to be recruted. The recrutment of these volunteers can be delegated to the phone tree charperson, f avalable. The responsbltes of the key caller are to: provde accurate nformaton, mantan confidentalty, assst famles n resolvng problems, communcate wth FRG leader (or charperson) ssues of concern, and mantan phone records (e.g., phone tree log form, famly contact form). A Key Caller Handbook and sample forms are provded n the Operaton READY Smart Book to assst volunteers n ths role. Addtonal tranng should be arranged and offered to these volunteers as necessary. Phone tree operations and protocols. The box opposte descrbes the basc operatons of a telephone tree. However, procedures and tools should be revsed and adjusted based on company needs and experences.
How Does a Phone Tree Work?

The FRG leader calls the phone tree chairperson (or each of the key callers if a chairperson is not available) to relay command or FRG information. The phone tree chairperson, in turn, contacts each key caller and passes on the message. When all calls are completed to their branch of the phone tree, each key caller contacts the phone tree chairperson or FRG leader and reports the outcomes of the calls. The process is reversed when family members contact their key callers. For guidance on handling a crisis call, key callers can use the Decision Diagram for Helping a Distressed Person, which is included in the Operation READY Smart Book. If a key caller cant answer a question or concern, the key caller contacts the phone tree chairperson or FRG leader. The key caller logs every call on a phone tree log form (a sample of this form is located in the Operation READY Smart Book) and, when appropriate on the Key Caller Family Contact Form, for record keeping purposes. The key caller is to report any significant event or information to the phone tree chairperson or FRG leader.
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FRG Email Just as creatng and mantanng a telephone tree lst s mportant to beng able to communcate wth famles, so too does an emal dstrbuton lst need to be created and mantaned. Emal provdes another easy way to provde tmely and accurate nformaton to famly members, ncludng extended famly members that Solders have dentfied. Emal can also be used as a way to publcze or provde nformaton related to FRG meetngs and socal events. Email distribution list. Lke wth the telephone tree, nformaton from the company roster should be used to create an emal lst for the FRG. Creaton and mantenance of the emal dstrbuton lst can be delegated to the telephone tree charperson or a key caller. (If the company has access to a battalon vFRG web ste, then ths web ste provdes an easy means for dong ths task.) Email protocols. Lke wth telephone calls, protocols also need to be n place. It s advsed that any emals sent out on behalf of the FRG contan mportant company or deployment-related nformaton be approved by the Commander or RDC. The FRG leader can then elect to send the emal or forward to a desgnated person (e.g., telephone tree charperson, key caller, vFRG coordnator) for dstrbuton to all
ndvduals on the emal lst. However, a message about FRG meetngs and socal events can be prepared by other FRG volunteers as approprate, but should be approved by the FRG leader. VIRTUAL FAMILY READINESS GROUP WEB SITE (vFRG) The Army web ste for FRGs, http://www.armyfrg.org, allows unts to provde some of the FRG functons onlne thereby enablng unts to meet the needs of famly members where they lve. The web ste provdes a secure means by whch FRGs can have twoway communcaton wth famly members as well as provdes a secure means for famly members and Solders to communcate whle Solders are n theatre. In addton, commanders can post updates on the deployed unt. Ths s a powerful tool for FRGs use and a helpful way to provde tmely accurate nformaton to unt famly members who are geographcally dspersed as well as a Solders other famly members such as parents. The FRG can use the vFRG to post newsletter, artcles, and other nformaton. The vFRG web ste also enables telephone tree and emal lsts to be updated, allows for emal communcaton, two-way nstant messagng, and the postng of pctures, artcles and downloads. However, the unt commander (and when deployed, the rear detachment commander) controls and approves
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FRG Email Just as creatng and mantanng a telephone tree lst s mportant to beng able to communcate wth famles, so too does an emal dstrbuton lst need to be created and mantaned. Emal provdes another easy way to provde tmely and accurate nformaton to famly members, ncludng extended famly members that Solders have dentfied. Emal can also be used as a way to publcze or provde nformaton related to FRG meetngs and socal events. Email distribution list. Lke wth the telephone tree, nformaton from the company roster should be used to create an emal lst for the FRG. Creaton and mantenance of the emal dstrbuton lst can be delegated to the telephone tree charperson or a key caller. (If the company has access to a battalon vFRG web ste, then ths web ste provdes an easy means for dong ths task.) Email protocols. Lke wth telephone calls, protocols also need to be n place. It s advsed that any emals sent out on behalf of the FRG contan mportant company or deployment-related nformaton be approved by the Commander or RDC. The FRG leader can then elect to send the emal or forward to a desgnated person (e.g., telephone tree charperson, key caller, vFRG coordnator) for dstrbuton to all
ndvduals on the emal lst. However, a message about FRG meetngs and socal events can be prepared by other FRG volunteers as approprate, but should be approved by the FRG leader. VIRTUAL FAMILY READINESS GROUP WEB SITE (vFRG) The Army web ste for FRGs, http://www.armyfrg.org, allows unts to provde some of the FRG functons onlne thereby enablng unts to meet the needs of famly members where they lve. The web ste provdes a secure means by whch FRGs can have twoway communcaton wth famly members as well as provdes a secure means for famly members and Solders to communcate whle Solders are n theatre. In addton, commanders can post updates on the deployed unt. Ths s a powerful tool for FRGs use and a helpful way to provde tmely accurate nformaton to unt famly members who are geographcally dspersed as well as a Solders other famly members such as parents. The FRG can use the vFRG to post newsletter, artcles, and other nformaton. The vFRG web ste also enables telephone tree and emal lsts to be updated, allows for emal communcaton, two-way nstant messagng, and the postng of pctures, artcles and downloads. However, the unt commander (and when deployed, the rear detachment commander) controls and approves
43
to FRGs. Although learnng about avalable support servces wll be an ongong effort, here s where the FRG can start: Rear Detachment Commander for dentficaton of approprate The FRG leader should promote and agences for referrng famles for encourage access to ths resource. needed assstance The vFRG web stes are establshed Key Caller Handbook (in the at the battalon level but may nOperation READY Smart Book)for clude separate pages for each comdentficaton and descrpton of pany. An nstructon book as well dfferent types of servces avalable as start-up and techncal support s to famles avalable on the web ste. Installation and community directories A word of caution. Garrison Army Community Service FRGs are encouraged to use (ACS) prmary resources for all either AKO or the vFRG for their Solders and ther famles. ACS can web sites. Both of these web assst Solders and famles through sites are secure. Register for a a myrad of servces and actvtes vFRG site at www.armyfrg.org. (ncludng pre-deployment and reunon plannng). ACS can also Referring Families To assst the FRG n referrng famles Military and Civilian to mltary and cvlan communty agences. To locate the nearest ACS, Community Support go to www.myarmylfetoo.com. Services Army National Guard State One of the functons of the FRG s Family Program Coordinator to assst famles n ther abltes to n each state, the Natonal Guard cope wth deployments and to help has a Famly Program Office that them solve problems. The FRG wll can provde assstance wth and need to refer famles to mltary and gudance on Guard ssues and cvlan organzatons for assstance. communty resources for famles. Knowng all the resources n every To locate a State Famly Program communty where famles lve s too Coordnator, go to much to expect an FRG to know. For www.guardfamly.org. ths reason, the Army has developed U.S. Army Reserve (USAR) web stes as an avenue for famles Regional Readiness Command to find the assstance they need. Ad(RRC) Family Programs dtonally, a wde array of nstallaton Officecan provde assstance and and other mltary organzatons can gudance on Reserve ssues and provde nformaton and assstance all content and users, who must be regstered to access the nformaton, and manages postngs to the web ste.
44
to FRGs. Although learnng about avalable support servces wll be an ongong effort, here s where the FRG can start: Rear Detachment Commander for dentficaton of approprate The FRG leader should promote and agences for referrng famles for encourage access to ths resource. needed assstance The vFRG web stes are establshed Key Caller Handbook (in the at the battalon level but may nOperation READY Smart Book)for clude separate pages for each comdentficaton and descrpton of pany. An nstructon book as well dfferent types of servces avalable as start-up and techncal support s to famles avalable on the web ste. Installation and community directories A word of caution. Garrison Army Community Service FRGs are encouraged to use (ACS) prmary resources for all either AKO or the vFRG for their Solders and ther famles. ACS can web sites. Both of these web assst Solders and famles through sites are secure. Register for a a myrad of servces and actvtes vFRG site at www.armyfrg.org. (ncludng pre-deployment and reunon plannng). ACS can also Referring Families To assst the FRG n referrng famles Military and Civilian to mltary and cvlan communty agences. To locate the nearest ACS, Community Support go to www.myarmylfetoo.com. Services Army National Guard State One of the functons of the FRG s Family Program Coordinator to assst famles n ther abltes to n each state, the Natonal Guard cope wth deployments and to help has a Famly Program Office that them solve problems. The FRG wll can provde assstance wth and need to refer famles to mltary and gudance on Guard ssues and cvlan organzatons for assstance. communty resources for famles. Knowng all the resources n every To locate a State Famly Program communty where famles lve s too Coordnator, go to much to expect an FRG to know. For www.guardfamly.org. ths reason, the Army has developed U.S. Army Reserve (USAR) web stes as an avenue for famles Regional Readiness Command to find the assstance they need. Ad(RRC) Family Programs dtonally, a wde array of nstallaton Officecan provde assstance and and other mltary organzatons can gudance on Reserve ssues and provde nformaton and assstance all content and users, who must be regstered to access the nformaton, and manages postngs to the web ste.
44
locatng communty resources. To offer these servces n communlocate a Reserve Regonal Readtes. CYS can provde assstance ness Command Famly Programs n locatng chld care and youth servces avalable to Army famles office, go to www.arfp.org. n the communtes where famles Family Assistance Center (FAC) lve. set up as a one-stop shop where famles can get nformaton and Operation Military Child CareA assstance from a dverse range of Department of Defense ntatve agences durng the ntal months to help famles/chld care guardof a large-scale deployment, natuans of geographcally dspersed ral dsaster, or mass casualty event actve duty personnel and mobChaplainprovdes counsellzed Natonal Guard and Reserve ng, offers relgous support, and servce members find affordable conducts tranng and workshops chld care optons n ther local for Solders and famles on wde communtes. Under ths ntatve, range of ssues. reduced chld care fees are offered Military One Source (MOS) (www. at lcensed chld care provders. To militaryonesource.com) a locate chld care optons, contact 1-800 telephone number and web the Natonal Assocaton of Chld ste where Solders and famles Care Resource and Referral Agencan self refer for confidental counces (NACCRRA) at 1-800-424-2246 selng at any tme. or on the nternet at MyArmyLifeToo.coman offical www.chldcareaware.org. Army web ste offerng nformaton Operation Military KidsArmy CYS has, and s contnung to on programs avalable for Solders establsh, partnershps wth youth and famles; also serves as a oneservng organzatons n targeted stop knowledge center provdng states wth hgh deployment rates access to a varety of nformaton to set up local support networks ncludng downloadable documents such as select Operaton that connect and support the READY materals. youth of moblzed Army Natonal Official FRG web siteThe vFRG Guard and Reserve servce memweb ste ncludes the offical Army bers. Through these communty web ste for FRGs. FRG leaders support networks, mltary youth must regster onlne to gan access receve a wde range of recreto the ste. atonal, socal and educatonal Garrison Children and Youth Serprograms n communtes where vices (CYS)offers chld care and they lve. For further nformaton, youth programs on mltary nstalvst the Web ste latons as well as has establshed www.operatonmltarykds.org. partnershps and arrangements to
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offer these servces n communlocatng communty resources. To locate a Reserve Regonal Readness tes. CYS can provde assstance Command Famly Programs office, n locatng chld care and youth go to www.arfp.org. servces avalable to Army famles Family Assistance Center (FAC) n the communtes where famles set up as a one-stop shop where lve. famles can get nformaton and Operation Military Child CareA assstance from a dverse range of Department of Defense ntatve agences durng the ntal months to help famles/chld care guardof a large-scale deployment, natuans of geographcally dspersed ral dsaster, or mass casualty event actve duty personnel and mob Chaplainprovdes counsellzed Natonal Guard and Reserve ng, offers relgous support, and servce members find affordable conducts tranng and workshops chld care optons n ther local for Solders and famles on wde communtes. Under ths ntatve, range of ssues. reduced chld care fees are offered Military One Source (MOS) (www. at lcensed chld care provders. To militaryonesource.com) a locate chld care optons, contact 1-800 telephone number and web the Natonal Assocaton of Chld ste where Solders and famles Care Resource and Referral Agencan self refer for confidental counces (NACCRRA) at 1-800-424-2246 selng at any tme. or on the nternet at MyArmyLifeToo.coman offical www.chldcareaware.org. Army web ste offerng nformaton Operation Military KidsArmy on programs avalable for Solders CYS has, and s contnung to and famles; also serves as a oneestablsh, partnershps wth youth stop knowledge center provdng servng organzatons n targeted access to a varety of nformaton states wth hgh deployment rates ncludng downloadable docuto set up local support networks ments such as select Operaton that connect and support the READY materals. youth of moblzed Army Natonal Official FRG web siteThe vFRG Guard and Reserve servce memweb ste ncludes the offical Army bers. Through these communty web ste for FRGs. FRG leaders support networks, mltary youth must regster onlne to gan access receve a wde range of recreto the ste. atonal, socal and educatonal Garrison Children and Youth Serprograms n communtes where vices (CYS)offers chld care and they lve. For further nformaton, youth programs on mltary nstalvst the Web ste latons as well as has establshed www.operatonmltarykds.org. partnershps and arrangements to
45
dentfy the challenges people face dentfy the resources people need Gettng famly members to be aware (actvtes, nformaton, tranng/ of and connected wth the FRG are sklls, help/support) mportant efforts. Whle all of the consder how resources and needs FRG staff (ncludng the publcty can be matched throughout the charperson) and members can play deployment cycle (pre, durng and a role, the FRG leader, can be nstrupost) mental n ncreasng the vsblty branstorm a lst of challenges of the FRG. As the FRG leader, t s wth FRG members prortze mportant to assess and contnually and dedcate a FRG meetng to evaluate publcty and partcpaaddressng each one. ton. Partcpaton n the FRG s very mportant but how well the FRG provdes tmely accurate nformaton to Once the needs and demographcs of the FRG membershp have been support famles when needed are valued measures of success. For that dentfied and addressed, there are a varety of opportuntes and ways to to happen, gettng connected to get connected to encourage nvolvefamles s necessary. ment n the FRG by famles who have not been attendng meetngs. Use dfferent opportuntes to make TIP Solders and famles aware of the H The FRG should strive to FRG such as by speakng at brefngs, ntroducng yourself nformally appeal to both officer and ento Solders and famly members at listed Soldiers families. The FRG events, and encouragng company should reflect the companys leadershp to talk about the FRG to make-up. Solders. Other ways to encourage partcpaton are: There are two reasons Solders and famly members partcpate n FRGs: Use word of mouth, the vFRG, and other ways to get the word out to because they thnk ther NEEDS all Solders and spouses. wll be MET Survey Solders and famly because they get ther NEEDS MET. members to determne needs and nterests to shape FRG communTo attract and keep FRG membercatons and actvtes for famles. shp hgh, take tme to determne Be personable and approachable. who needs what from the FRG: Invte ndvduals to partcpate. Let dentfy dfferences between ndvduals know what opportunndvduals (ages, ranks, famly tes to help are avalable. Accept structure, experence n the any offer to help. communty, locaton, ncome)
Sustaining The Family Readiness Group
dentfy the challenges people face dentfy the resources people need Gettng famly members to be aware (actvtes, nformaton, tranng/ of and connected wth the FRG are sklls, help/support) mportant efforts. Whle all of the consder how resources and needs FRG staff (ncludng the publcty can be matched throughout the charperson) and members can play deployment cycle (pre, durng and a role, the FRG leader, can be nstrupost) mental n ncreasng the vsblty branstorm a lst of challenges of the FRG. As the FRG leader, t s wth FRG members prortze mportant to assess and contnually and dedcate a FRG meetng to evaluate publcty and partcpaaddressng each one. ton. Partcpaton n the FRG s very mportant but how well the FRG provdes tmely accurate nformaton to Once the needs and demographcs of the FRG membershp have been support famles when needed are valued measures of success. For that dentfied and addressed, there are a varety of opportuntes and ways to to happen, gettng connected to get connected to encourage nvolvefamles s necessary. ment n the FRG by famles who have not been attendng meetngs. Use dfferent opportuntes to make TIP Solders and famles aware of the H The FRG should strive to FRG such as by speakng at brefngs, ntroducng yourself nformally appeal to both officer and ento Solders and famly members at listed Soldiers families. The FRG events, and encouragng company should reflect the companys leadershp to talk about the FRG to make-up. Solders. Other ways to encourage partcpaton are: There are two reasons Solders and famly members partcpate n FRGs: Use word of mouth, the vFRG, and other ways to get the word out to because they thnk ther NEEDS all Solders and spouses. wll be MET Survey Solders and famly because they get ther NEEDS MET. members to determne needs and nterests to shape FRG communTo attract and keep FRG membercatons and actvtes for famles. shp hgh, take tme to determne Be personable and approachable. who needs what from the FRG: Invte ndvduals to partcpate. Let dentfy dfferences between ndvduals know what opportunndvduals (ages, ranks, famly tes to help are avalable. Accept structure, experence n the any offer to help. communty, locaton, ncome)
Sustaining The Family Readiness Group
46
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Plan practcal and fun actvtes. Keep meetngs bref and enjoyable. Communcate wth newcomers on ther arrval. Tell them about FRG actvtes and help them feel welcome. Create a postve reputaton of the FRG. Ensure that the FRG provdes tmely and accurate nformaton and doesnt become a rumor mll. Mantan control of FRG meetngs and take steps to ensure they do not become a forum for poltcal or personal agendas, Army bashng, and especally gossp! Promote a frendly communty envronment where everyone s treated as equals. Be careful not to allow the FRG to polarze nto separate factons. Offer chld care and publcze that chld care wll be avalable at FRG meetngs and events, f funded/approved by the unt commander. Provde food at FRG events, usng FRG nformal funds or supplemental msson funds ntended for FRGs. Use the meda to publcze FRG actvtes and events. Installaton and/or local newspapers and televson (e.g., communty channel on cable televson) are a way to reach large number of famles. For gudance, check wth the Publc Affars Office. Use ncentves. Recognze volunteers contrbutons. It s another way of creatng a postve and warm frendly envronment.
Identfy barrers and resolve as many as possble.
Handling Traumatic Situations

Every deployment s unque. Yet, certan famly ssues are typcally seen durng every deployment. Handlng these stuatons requres knowng the approprate referral agences for these typcal ssues. (See the mltary and cvlan communty resource nformaton n the Operaton READY Smart Book.) However, some ssues or stuatons cannot be antcpated. Ths secton dscusses approaches for dealng wth other antcpated and emergency stuatons. Plannng and preparng for all types of stuatons are mportant n beng able to respond effectvely. CRISIS MANAGEMENT An FRG leader (and key callers) can expect to handle famles n crss . Here s nformaton on what can create a crss for famles, how they cope, and ways to deal wth ndvduals n a crss. An ndvdual s n crss when he/she experences an event or seres of events that temporarly cause the ndvdual to feel unable to cope. There s a dverse range of events that can create a crss for Solders and famles. These events nclude: Unexpected and unplanned events (e.g., accdent, natural dsaster, act of terror, loss of Solder or famly member, llness of famly member)
47
Plan practcal and fun actvtes. Keep meetngs bref and enjoyable. Communcate wth newcomers on ther arrval. Tell them about FRG actvtes and help them feel welcome. Create a postve reputaton of the FRG. Ensure that the FRG provdes tmely and accurate nformaton and doesnt become a rumor mll. Mantan control of FRG meetngs and take steps to ensure they do not become a forum for poltcal or personal agendas, Army bashng, and especally gossp! Promote a frendly communty envronment where everyone s treated as equals. Be careful not to allow the FRG to polarze nto separate factons. Offer chld care and publcze that chld care wll be avalable at FRG meetngs and events, f funded/approved by the unt commander. Provde food at FRG events, usng FRG nformal funds or supplemental msson funds ntended for FRGs. Use the meda to publcze FRG actvtes and events. Installaton and/or local newspapers and televson (e.g., communty channel on cable televson) are a way to reach large number of famles. For gudance, check wth the Publc Affars Office. Use ncentves. Recognze volunteers contrbutons. It s another way of creatng a postve and warm frendly envronment.
Identfy barrers and resolve as many as possble.
Handling Traumatic Situations

Every deployment s unque. Yet, certan famly ssues are typcally seen durng every deployment. Handlng these stuatons requres knowng the approprate referral agences for these typcal ssues. (See the mltary and cvlan communty resource nformaton n the Operaton READY Smart Book.) However, some ssues or stuatons cannot be antcpated. Ths secton dscusses approaches for dealng wth other antcpated and emergency stuatons. Plannng and preparng for all types of stuatons are mportant n beng able to respond effectvely. CRISIS MANAGEMENT An FRG leader (and key callers) can expect to handle famles n crss . Here s nformaton on what can create a crss for famles, how they cope, and ways to deal wth ndvduals n a crss. An ndvdual s n crss when he/she experences an event or seres of events that temporarly cause the ndvdual to feel unable to cope. There s a dverse range of events that can create a crss for Solders and famles. These events nclude: Unexpected and unplanned events (e.g., accdent, natural dsaster, act of terror, loss of Solder or famly member, llness of famly member)
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Lfe or development events (e.g., death of an elderly parent and brth of a chld). A deployment can be consdered n ths category because deployments are a part of mltary lfe Functonal crss occurs n famles that are not copng or experencng ndvdual or famly problems such as financal problems/crss, substance abuse, famly volence, and nfidelty Caregver crss occurs when somethng happens to the caregver, such an njury, llness or death, or for some other reason, the caregver can no longer care for the chldren of deployed Solders and cvlans. In essence, the Famly Care Plan s no longer vald. An ndvduals reactons to a crss often proceed through dstnct stages. Denal (Ths cant be happenng.) Recognton (.e., the person sees what has happened but stll has not accepted realty) Remnscence (.e., how thngs used to be) Adjustment (What do I need to do?) Resoluton (.e., the stuaton s accepted, and lfe goes on).
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Tips for Dealing with Individuals in Crisis H Understand what coping stage the
individual is in when he/she contacts the FRG as it gives an indication of the individuals receptivity to help and type of support needed. Recognize that an individual will be experiencing a range of emotions. An individual will most likely be expecting to get information or assistance that will solve the problem. Treat the individual with care. Listen carefully and speak calmly. Do not make promises that cant be kept. Assist when able and refer when a situation or issue is not your area of expertise. For example, do not handle individuals who are suicidal or may harm themselves or others, refer them to Chaplain, Mental Health or immediately call the Military Police. Address the presenting problem(s). If an individual rambles when talking, try to identify a major issue of concern that can be solved easily. Solving an easy problem first can help to calm the individual and win trust. Refer to ACS, Reserve Component Family Programs, Social Work Service, Military One Source, or other community agencies if the individual does not respond to your intervention. Follow up to ensure the individual is getting the assistance needed.
H H
Lfe or development events (e.g., death of an elderly parent and brth of a chld). A deployment can be consdered n ths category because deployments are a part of mltary lfe Functonal crss occurs n famles that are not copng or experencng ndvdual or famly problems such as financal problems/crss, substance abuse, famly volence, and nfidelty Caregver crss occurs when somethng happens to the caregver, such an njury, llness or death, or for some other reason, the caregver can no longer care for the chldren of deployed Solders and cvlans. In essence, the Famly Care Plan s no longer vald. An ndvduals reactons to a crss often proceed through dstnct stages. Denal (Ths cant be happenng.) Recognton (.e., the person sees what has happened but stll has not accepted realty) Remnscence (.e., how thngs used to be) Adjustment (What do I need to do?) Resoluton (.e., the stuaton s accepted, and lfe goes on).
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Tips for Dealing with Individuals in Crisis H Understand what coping stage the
individual is in when he/she contacts the FRG as it gives an indication of the individuals receptivity to help and type of support needed. Recognize that an individual will be experiencing a range of emotions. An individual will most likely be expecting to get information or assistance that will solve the problem. Treat the individual with care. Listen carefully and speak calmly. Do not make promises that cant be kept. Assist when able and refer when a situation or issue is not your area of expertise. For example, do not handle individuals who are suicidal or may harm themselves or others, refer them to Chaplain, Mental Health or immediately call the Military Police. Address the presenting problem(s). If an individual rambles when talking, try to identify a major issue of concern that can be solved easily. Solving an easy problem first can help to calm the individual and win trust. Refer to ACS, Reserve Component Family Programs, Social Work Service, Military One Source, or other community agencies if the individual does not respond to your intervention. Follow up to ensure the individual is getting the assistance needed.
H H
TRAUMA SUPPORT There s a dverse range of trauma stuatons that can occur ncludng: Death of a Solder Death, llness or njury of a leader MIA/POW Mass casualtes Sucde Death of a spouse or chld. These are very dfficult tmes for unts and famles. It s mportant for the FRG leader to be clear about the role of the FRG n these stuatons and how t can support the unt and famles. Battalion Care Teams. The battalon commander decdes whether to have the Battalon Care Team avalable for casualty or trauma stuatons. If the battalon commander chooses to have these teams, then FRG leaders advertse to ts members that a cadre of care team volunteers s needed and provde nformaton on the tranng avalable to all nterested ndvduals. Tranng s conducted by ether unt or garrson chaplans, Army Communty Servce or Reserve Component Famly Programs. Once ndvduals have completed tranng, a care team roster s prepared by the care team coordnator and made avalable to the battalon commander, RDCs and FRG battalon advsor PRIOR to deployment. In the event of a casualty ncdent, the chaplan or Casualty Notficaton
Officer (CNO) wll ask the famly f they want assstance from a care team. If requested by the famly, the CNO or chaplan wll contact the battalon RDC, who wll determne the 3-6 ndvduals from the roster that wll form the team sent. The battalon RDC may seek nput from the commanders spouse, battalon FRG advsor or care team coordnator n determnng the teams make-up and/or role based on the famlys wshes (ncludng the ndvduals wth whom the famly feels comfortable). As a result, care teams can be comprsed n dfferent ways and may nclude any of the followng ndvduals: key spouses from the brgade, battalon, and/or company; FRG leader, or spouses from the same platoon or company. The RDC may appont one ndvdual of the team to serve as the care team leader. The care team reports to the RDC and not the FRG leader. FRG Support. A company level FRG can provde valuable support to care teams assstng a famly n ther company. (For deas and addtonal nformaton, see Casualty and Trauma n the Unt Secton 2 of Part 4 of ths handbook or the Operaton READY Trauma n the Unt Handbook.) In addton, the FRG leader may need to take acton to help manage the FRG membershps reacton to the stuaton. See the tps box on the next page.
TRAUMA SUPPORT There s a dverse range of trauma stuatons that can occur ncludng: Death of a Solder Death, llness or njury of a leader MIA/POW Mass casualtes Sucde Death of a spouse or chld. These are very dfficult tmes for unts and famles. It s mportant for the FRG leader to be clear about the role of the FRG n these stuatons and how t can support the unt and famles. Battalion Care Teams. The battalon commander decdes whether to have the Battalon Care Team avalable for casualty or trauma stuatons. If the battalon commander chooses to have these teams, then FRG leaders advertse to ts members that a cadre of care team volunteers s needed and provde nformaton on the tranng avalable to all nterested ndvduals. Tranng s conducted by ether unt or garrson chaplans, Army Communty Servce or Reserve Component Famly Programs. Once ndvduals have completed tranng, a care team roster s prepared by the care team coordnator and made avalable to the battalon commander, RDCs and FRG battalon advsor PRIOR to deployment. In the event of a casualty ncdent, the chaplan or Casualty Notficaton
Officer (CNO) wll ask the famly f they want assstance from a care team. If requested by the famly, the CNO or chaplan wll contact the battalon RDC, who wll determne the 3-6 ndvduals from the roster that wll form the team sent. The battalon RDC may seek nput from the commanders spouse, battalon FRG advsor or care team coordnator n determnng the teams make-up and/or role based on the famlys wshes (ncludng the ndvduals wth whom the famly feels comfortable). As a result, care teams can be comprsed n dfferent ways and may nclude any of the followng ndvduals: key spouses from the brgade, battalon, and/or company; FRG leader, or spouses from the same platoon or company. The RDC may appont one ndvdual of the team to serve as the care team leader. The care team reports to the RDC and not the FRG leader. FRG Support. A company level FRG can provde valuable support to care teams assstng a famly n ther company. (For deas and addtonal nformaton, see Casualty and Trauma n the Unt Secton 2 of Part 4 of ths handbook or the Operaton READY Trauma n the Unt Handbook.) In addton, the FRG leader may need to take acton to help manage the FRG membershps reacton to the stuaton. See the tps box on the next page.
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Tips for Handling Trauma Situations H In most instances, the RDC will contact the FRG leader. However, in
all instances, the FRG leader should contact the RDC for guidance and direction. If the RDC determines there is a need for an information briefing, then the RDC will provide the specific message to be given by FRG key callers when contacting families about the briefing. Regardless of whether there is a briefing, the RDC will provide the information that can be conveyed to FRG membership.
Tips for Handling Trauma Situations H In most instances, the RDC will contact the FRG leader. However, in
all instances, the FRG leader should contact the RDC for guidance and direction. If the RDC determines there is a need for an information briefing, then the RDC will provide the specific message to be given by FRG key callers when contacting families about the briefing. Regardless of whether there is a briefing, the RDC will provide the information that can be conveyed to FRG membership.
H The FRG can support the Battalion Care Team who help coordinate
support for families. In some instances, other units may also help coordinate support efforts.
H The FRG can support the Battalion Care Team who help coordinate
support for families. In some instances, other units may also help coordinate support efforts.
H Families will be experiencing a range of emotions as they go

through the grieving process. Encourage FRG members to be patient and supportive of grieving families. Remind FRG members to acknowledge and support grieving children.
H Families will be experiencing a range of emotions as they go

through the grieving process. Encourage FRG members to be patient and supportive of grieving families. Remind FRG members to acknowledge and support grieving children.
H Provide FRG members with guidance on what to say and what not
to say. Invite PAO to talk about how to deal with the media. Invite the Chaplain to talk about the grieving process and acceptable responses. Help FRG members also deal with the unit loss.
H Provide FRG members with guidance on what to say and what not
to say. Invite PAO to talk about how to deal with the media. Invite the Chaplain to talk about the grieving process and acceptable responses. Help FRG members also deal with the unit loss.
H Remind FRG membership to respect familys privacy. H The grieving process takes a long time, often years. Further, grieving families often do not reach out for help. The FRG can provide emotional and logistical support as needed. Encourage FRG members to listen to grieving families. It is a simple thing that can be very helpful. Have the FRG call, send cards, visit, and take other steps to let the family know that people care and are thinking of them.
H Remind FRG membership to respect familys privacy. H The grieving process takes a long time, often years. Further, grieving families often do not reach out for help. The FRG can provide emotional and logistical support as needed. Encourage FRG members to listen to grieving families. It is a simple thing that can be very helpful. Have the FRG call, send cards, visit, and take other steps to let the family know that people care and are thinking of them.
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FRGs can refer famles to the followng resources for addtonal support: Casualty Assistance Officer (CAO)for assstance n accessng servces and benefit nformaton Chaplainfor counselng Army Community Servicefor short-term emotonal support Military Family Life Consultantsfor short-term emotonal support Battalion Care Teamfor shortterm emotonal and logstcal support Military One Sourcefor counselng servces, nformaton, and referrals Army Casualty and Memorial Affairs Operation Center (CMAOC) asssts famles n tmes of bereavement (1-866-2725841) Medical Family Assistance Center (MEDFAC)set up on adhoc bass n the event of a hgh number of war wounded, mass casualty, natural dsaster, or terrorst attack to provde nformaton and support servces to famles of Solders who are npatents or outpatents at a mltary medcal treatment faclty (MTF) Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2)provdes personal support, advocacy and follow-up to severely dsabled (.e., categorzed as Specal Category or SPECAT) Solders and ther famles, accessed va web at www.AW2.army.ml or telephone at 1-800-237-1336.
Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO)helpful nformaton can be accessed on ther web ste at www.dtc.ml/dpmo/famly/ ndex.htm Community Based Health Care Organization (CBHCO)helps Guard and Reserve Solders on medcal hold locate medcal servces n ther local communty Army Family Assistance Hotline (1-800-833-6622). MEDIA GUIDANCE The news meda lke to attend certan events such as farewells and welcome home ceremones when Solders deploy and return from deployment. These are occasons when meda frequently seek to ntervew famly members. In addton, wth round the clock news on televson, rado, and the nternet, famles can hear thngs very quckly. In fact, the meda may release nformaton before t s offically released by the Army/Department of Defense. Ths s another tme when meda may want to ntervew mltary famles. If the FRG leader or member s approached by the meda for an ntervew, contact Publc Affars and request that a publc affars officer (PAO) be present. The PAO can also provde gudance on what you should and should not say. Keep n mnd that speakng wth the meda s an opportunty to present nformaton about the FRG to the publc. It s also a chance to tell the Army story and to emphasze the mportant role of the famly.
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FRGs can refer famles to the followng resources for addtonal support: Casualty Assistance Officer (CAO)for assstance n accessng servces and benefit nformaton Chaplainfor counselng Army Community Servicefor short-term emotonal support Military Family Life Consultantsfor short-term emotonal support Battalion Care Teamfor shortterm emotonal and logstcal support Military One Sourcefor counselng servces, nformaton, and referrals Army Casualty and Memorial Affairs Operation Center (CMAOC) asssts famles n tmes of bereavement (1-866-2725841) Medical Family Assistance Center (MEDFAC)set up on adhoc bass n the event of a hgh number of war wounded, mass casualty, natural dsaster, or terrorst attack to provde nformaton and support servces to famles of Solders who are npatents or outpatents at a mltary medcal treatment faclty (MTF) Army Wounded Warrior Program (AW2)provdes personal support, advocacy and follow-up to severely dsabled (.e., categorzed as Specal Category or SPECAT) Solders and ther famles, accessed va web at www.AW2.army.ml or telephone at 1-800-237-1336.
Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO)helpful nformaton can be accessed on ther web ste at www.dtc.ml/dpmo/famly/ ndex.htm Community Based Health Care Organization (CBHCO)helps Guard and Reserve Solders on medcal hold locate medcal servces n ther local communty Army Family Assistance Hotline (1-800-833-6622). MEDIA GUIDANCE The news meda lke to attend certan events such as farewells and welcome home ceremones when Solders deploy and return from deployment. These are occasons when meda frequently seek to ntervew famly members. In addton, wth round the clock news on televson, rado, and the nternet, famles can hear thngs very quckly. In fact, the meda may release nformaton before t s offically released by the Army/Department of Defense. Ths s another tme when meda may want to ntervew mltary famles. If the FRG leader or member s approached by the meda for an ntervew, contact Publc Affars and request that a publc affars officer (PAO) be present. The PAO can also provde gudance on what you should and should not say. Keep n mnd that speakng wth the meda s an opportunty to present nformaton about the FRG to the publc. It s also a chance to tell the Army story and to emphasze the mportant role of the famly.
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Here s addtonal nformaton about dealng wth the meda, especally for unplanned ntervews.
Here s addtonal nformaton about dealng wth the meda, especally for unplanned ntervews.
Tips for Dealing with the Media H Complete garrison or Reserve Component scheduled public affairs
training.
Tips for Dealing with the Media H Complete garrison or Reserve Component scheduled public affairs
training.
H All individuals (FRG leader and family members) have the right to H H H H H H H
refuse an interview. Know with whom you are talking. Write down the reporters name, telephone number, and name of the media organization. Anticipate what questions reporters are likely to ask. Determine response to questions. Listen carefully to the question. Think before speaking. Know your limitations. If you do not have first-hand knowledge, do not speculate. Provide explanation when you cannot answer a question. Be brief in answer and just answer the question. Be cautious about questions that lead to only yes or no responses. Avoid acronyms. Know what not to discuss or say. Know how to respond to specific types of questions. Do not say off the record. Never give sensitive information that could jeopardize the safety and security of either Soldiers or family members. Be positive. Do not argue. Be yourself. Notify PAO, if you have not already done so.
H All individuals (FRG leader and family members) have the right to H H H H H H H
refuse an interview. Know with whom you are talking. Write down the reporters name, telephone number, and name of the media organization. Anticipate what questions reporters are likely to ask. Determine response to questions. Listen carefully to the question. Think before speaking. Know your limitations. If you do not have first-hand knowledge, do not speculate. Provide explanation when you cannot answer a question. Be brief in answer and just answer the question. Be cautious about questions that lead to only yes or no responses. Avoid acronyms. Know what not to discuss or say. Know how to respond to specific types of questions. Do not say off the record. Never give sensitive information that could jeopardize the safety and security of either Soldiers or family members. Be positive. Do not argue. Be yourself. Notify PAO, if you have not already done so.
H H
H H
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RUMOR CONTROL It s nevtable that at some pont(s) durng a deployment, rumors wll surface. In some cases, news meda coverage of mltary operatons wll provoke famles to seek nformaton related to what they may have seen or heard. When famles do not receve tmely nformaton, ths can create panc or lead to gossp or rumors runnng rampant. It s essental that famles receve tmely and accurate nformaton from the RDC to curtal rumors. The FRG needs to convey to famles that the RDC and other mltary leaders serve as the offical source of nformaton.
Tips for Managing Rumors H Discuss questions/issues

that families have in a timely manner with RDC. This may help to prevent rumors. When there are rumors, contact the RDC to discuss the steps that need to be taken. Determine what information the RDC wants the FRG to give to families. Disseminate the information to families that has been provided by the RDC to the FRG leader. Ensure official information is passed on using multiple communication systems (e.g., FRG telephone tree, email, and vFRG). Have the RDC attend and speak at an FRG meeting or event to provide official information to families. Notify families of any information briefings scheduled.
RUMOR CONTROL It s nevtable that at some pont(s) durng a deployment, rumors wll surface. In some cases, news meda coverage of mltary operatons wll provoke famles to seek nformaton related to what they may have seen or heard. When famles do not receve tmely nformaton, ths can create panc or lead to gossp or rumors runnng rampant. It s essental that famles receve tmely and accurate nformaton from the RDC to curtal rumors. The FRG needs to convey to famles that the RDC and other mltary leaders serve as the offical source of nformaton.
Tips for Managing Rumors H Discuss questions/issues

that families have in a timely manner with RDC. This may help to prevent rumors. When there are rumors, contact the RDC to discuss the steps that need to be taken. Determine what information the RDC wants the FRG to give to families. Disseminate the information to families that has been provided by the RDC to the FRG leader. Ensure official information is passed on using multiple communication systems (e.g., FRG telephone tree, email, and vFRG). Have the RDC attend and speak at an FRG meeting or event to provide official information to families. Notify families of any information briefings scheduled.
Bottom line: It is essential that families get accurate information in a timely manner. This will help to avoid rumors.
Bottom line: It is essential that families get accurate information in a timely manner. This will help to avoid rumors.
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PART 4: ROLE AND ACTIVITIES OF THE FRG IN DEPLOYMENT CYCLE
PART 4: ROLE AND ACTIVITIES OF THE FRG IN DEPLOYMENT CYCLE
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The following information is written for company level FRGs for active, National Guard, and Reserve Components. However, the information is applicable to FRGs at all levels. This part of the handbook provides suggestions on the specific activities the FRG should perform during each phase of the deployment cycle. Each section is divided into two checklists. The first checklist focuses primarily on the activities the FRG leader needs to conduct with command and FRG staff. The second checklist focuses on FRG activities for families. For official guidance on FRG activities, see section 3 entitled Management of FRG Activities in Part 3 of this handbook. Procedural information on communications systems to be used with families also appears in Section 3.3 of Part 3 of this handbook.
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The following information is written for company level FRGs for active, National Guard, and Reserve Components. However, the information is applicable to FRGs at all levels. This part of the handbook provides suggestions on the specific activities the FRG should perform during each phase of the deployment cycle. Each section is divided into two checklists. The first checklist focuses primarily on the activities the FRG leader needs to conduct with command and FRG staff. The second checklist focuses on FRG activities for families. For official guidance on FRG activities, see section 3 entitled Management of FRG Activities in Part 3 of this handbook. Procedural information on communications systems to be used with families also appears in Section 3.3 of Part 3 of this handbook.
4.1 Train-Up/Preparation and Mobilization Phases

Once the reset actvtes after a deployment are complete and the unt s reconsttuted, the company begns the tran-up preparaton phase. The focus of the tran-up phase s to reestablsh unt and Solder readness and prepare for the next msson. Durng ths tme, there are often changes n unt leadershp, Solders and famly members, and/or FRG leadershp due to Permanent Change of Staton (PCS) or other reasons. Certan actvtes need to be performed to sustan the FRG and to plan for the next deployment cycle. Gven these tmes of hgh OPTEMPO and ongong rapd deployments, FRGs need to operate on an ongong bass rather than startng from scratch wth each deployment. Work to preserve what the FRG has done so that new FRG leadershp can buld on the systems (e.g., telephone tree), procedures (e.g. key caller protocol, newsletter), and programs n place and thereby effectvely support the company msson. In addton, t s mportant to embrace new Solders and famles nto the company and to mantan communcatons wth them.
Deployment
4.1 Train-Up/Preparation and Mobilization Phases

Once the reset actvtes after a deployment are complete and the unt s reconsttuted, the company begns the tran-up preparaton phase. The focus of the tran-up phase s to reestablsh unt and Solder readness and prepare for the next msson. Durng ths tme, there are often changes n unt leadershp, Solders and famly members, and/or FRG leadershp due to Permanent Change of Staton (PCS) or other reasons. Certan actvtes need to be performed to sustan the FRG and to plan for the next deployment cycle. Gven these tmes of hgh OPTEMPO and ongong rapd deployments, FRGs need to operate on an ongong bass rather than startng from scratch wth each deployment. Work to preserve what the FRG has done so that new FRG leadershp can buld on the systems (e.g., telephone tree), procedures (e.g. key caller protocol, newsletter), and programs n place and thereby effectvely support the company msson. In addton, t s mportant to embrace new Solders and famles nto the company and to mantan communcatons wth them.
Deployment
Mobilization
Employment
Mobilization
Employment
Redeployment
Redeployment
Reconstitution
Post Deployment
Reconstitution
Post Deployment
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4: ROLE AND ACTIVITIES OF THE FRG IN DEPLOYMENT CYCLE
Assisting Command With Family Preparations and Ensuring FRG Readiness

FRG LEADERS TRAIN-UP/PREPARATION AND MOBILIZATION PRE-DEPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Meet wth the company commander to: be ntroduced to and establsh relatonshp wth RDC develop a plan of acton for preparng famles for deployment and for supportng famles durng deployment (.e., specfyng responsbltes of FRG and RDC) dscuss wth the company commander and RDC the process to be followed n the event of casualtes n the unt and the role and use of Battalon Care Team to gan an understandng of casualty notficaton procedures determne methods by whch command and FRG leader wll mantan communcaton durng deployment set up company Web page on the Battalon vFRG web ste obtan partculars (.e., date, tme and locaton) about pre-deployment brefings and Solder Readness Processng (SRP) n order to notfy famles ensure that chldrens ssues are addressed n pre-deployment brefings and that age approprate actvtes are conducted wth chldren dscuss at-rsk famles and how to refer them for assstance. Recognze all volunteers. Promote smooth transtons of FRG leadershp and ndvdual FRG volunteers nto new roles. Recrut volunteers, ensure they are enrolled wth the ACS Volunteer Corps Coordnator or Reserve Component Famly Programs and have attended FRG tranng. Revew FRG operatons and make adjustments as needed to be prepared for next deployment even f the deployment date s not known. Wrte lessons learned and submt to RDC for ncluson n unt after acton report.
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Assisting Command With Family Preparations and Ensuring FRG Readiness

FRG LEADERS TRAIN-UP/PREPARATION AND MOBILIZATION PRE-DEPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Meet wth the company commander to: be ntroduced to and establsh relatonshp wth RDC develop a plan of acton for preparng famles for deployment and for supportng famles durng deployment (.e., specfyng responsbltes of FRG and RDC) dscuss wth the company commander and RDC the process to be followed n the event of casualtes n the unt and the role and use of Battalon Care Team to gan an understandng of casualty notficaton procedures determne methods by whch command and FRG leader wll mantan communcaton durng deployment set up company Web page on the Battalon vFRG web ste obtan partculars (.e., date, tme and locaton) about pre-deployment brefings and Solder Readness Processng (SRP) n order to notfy famles ensure that chldrens ssues are addressed n pre-deployment brefings and that age approprate actvtes are conducted wth chldren dscuss at-rsk famles and how to refer them for assstance. Recognze all volunteers. Promote smooth transtons of FRG leadershp and ndvdual FRG volunteers nto new roles. Recrut volunteers, ensure they are enrolled wth the ACS Volunteer Corps Coordnator or Reserve Component Famly Programs and have attended FRG tranng. Revew FRG operatons and make adjustments as needed to be prepared for next deployment even f the deployment date s not known. Wrte lessons learned and submt to RDC for ncluson n unt after acton report.
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Communcate to command any famly questons or ssues that become known to the FRG. Make sure the FRG phone tree s current and actve. Work wth RDC to get updated roster nformaton and famly nformaton data. Ensure key callers are aware of resources so they can provde approprate referrals to famles. Assst n gettng volunteers traned for the Battalon Care Teams. Attend pre-deployment brefings. (Note: Attendng brefings s mportant because t provdes the opportunty to obtan mportant nformaton to pass on to famles, ntroduce the FRG leader and co-leader, collect accurate famly nformaton on company famles as well as for Solders who are assgned to the unt for deployment, and meet Solders and famles.) Meet wth ACS Moblzaton and Deployment Program Manager and/or Reserve Component Famly Programs staff to dentfy deployment support avalable. Dscuss what support they can provde to both the FRG and famles. Ths dscusson should address programs, servces, and support avalable for the FRG, FRG volunteers and/or famles; educatonal and nformaton materals avalable; regstraton of FRG statutory volunteers; and assstance wth referrals and coordnaton of servces; Obtan helpful nformaton materals that wll be dstrbuted to famles, such as: Operation READY Soldier/Family Deployment Handbook avalable from ACS and Reserve Component Famly Programs Mltary and cvlan communty phone drectores of mportant resources Operaton READY chldrens workbooks.
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Communcate to command any famly questons or ssues that become known to the FRG. Make sure the FRG phone tree s current and actve. Work wth RDC to get updated roster nformaton and famly nformaton data. Ensure key callers are aware of resources so they can provde approprate referrals to famles. Assst n gettng volunteers traned for the Battalon Care Teams. Attend pre-deployment brefings. (Note: Attendng brefings s mportant because t provdes the opportunty to obtan mportant nformaton to pass on to famles, ntroduce the FRG leader and co-leader, collect accurate famly nformaton on company famles as well as for Solders who are assgned to the unt for deployment, and meet Solders and famles.) Meet wth ACS Moblzaton and Deployment Program Manager and/or Reserve Component Famly Programs staff to dentfy deployment support avalable. Dscuss what support they can provde to both the FRG and famles. Ths dscusson should address programs, servces, and support avalable for the FRG, FRG volunteers and/or famles; educatonal and nformaton materals avalable; regstraton of FRG statutory volunteers; and assstance wth referrals and coordnaton of servces; Obtan helpful nformaton materals that wll be dstrbuted to famles, such as: Operation READY Soldier/Family Deployment Handbook avalable from ACS and Reserve Component Famly Programs Mltary and cvlan communty phone drectores of mportant resources Operaton READY chldrens workbooks.
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Getting Families and Soldiers Ready

Remember, the FRG s establshed by the commander to assst n mltary and personal deployment preparedness and enhance the famly readness of Solders and famles. The FRG can play a vtal role n preparng famles and Solders for deployment.
Getting Families and Soldiers Ready
Remember, the FRG s establshed by the commander to assst n mltary and personal deployment preparedness and enhance the famly readness of Solders and famles. The FRG can play a vtal role n preparng famles and Solders for deployment.
FRGS TRAIN-UP/PREPARATION AND MOBILIZATION PRE-DEPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Dssemnate nformaton about company pre-deployment brefings (ncludng chldcare arrangements), msson and schedule nformaton (f allowed), Solder Readness Processng (SRP) schedule, and FRG meetngs to Solders and famles usng the phone tree, vFRG web ste, and emal. Ensure famles all understand the process of notficaton n case of casualty or njury. Encourage Solders and famles to attend pre-deployment brefngs, f possble. Provde mportant nformaton dssemnated at pre-deployment brefings to Solders and famles. Encourage Solders and famles to provde contact nformaton for all desred loved ones (.e., mmedate famly, extended famly/relatves, and fiancs/fiances). (Note: Ths nformaton wll be obtaned by the RDC, FRG and ACS.) Also get nformaton on famles nterest n partcpatng n FRG actvtes or vFRG. Ask the Solder to provde a form authorzng famly members access (by name and relatonshp) to the RDC or vFRG system admnstrator. Ensure famly members know how to access the unts vFRG web system and MyArmyLfeToo.com for up-to-date nformaton. Provde nformaton on how famles can contact Solders whle deployed, f known.
FRGS TRAIN-UP/PREPARATION AND MOBILIZATION PRE-DEPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Dssemnate nformaton about company pre-deployment brefings (ncludng chldcare arrangements), msson and schedule nformaton (f allowed), Solder Readness Processng (SRP) schedule, and FRG meetngs to Solders and famles usng the phone tree, vFRG web ste, and emal. Ensure famles all understand the process of notficaton n case of casualty or njury. Encourage Solders and famles to attend pre-deployment brefngs, f possble. Provde mportant nformaton dssemnated at pre-deployment brefings to Solders and famles. Encourage Solders and famles to provde contact nformaton for all desred loved ones (.e., mmedate famly, extended famly/relatves, and fiancs/fiances). (Note: Ths nformaton wll be obtaned by the RDC, FRG and ACS.) Also get nformaton on famles nterest n partcpatng n FRG actvtes or vFRG. Ask the Solder to provde a form authorzng famly members access (by name and relatonshp) to the RDC or vFRG system admnstrator. Ensure famly members know how to access the unts vFRG web system and MyArmyLfeToo.com for up-to-date nformaton. Provde nformaton on how famles can contact Solders whle deployed, f known.
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Coordnate wth PAO to provde nformaton to Solders and famles on how to deal wth the meda. Remnd spouses to check that they have access to mportant personal documents (e.g., power of attorney), safe depost box, car keys, checkbook, etc. and famly care plans f an emergency arses durng deployment. Dstrbute nformaton on Mltary One Source and Communty Mental Health resources. Gve all FRG members a pocket gude lst of emergency phone numbers on ther post ncludng RDC, RDNCO and FRG POC. Provde famles wth approprate nformaton and educaton materals such as: a copy of the Operaton READY Solder/Famly Deployment Handbook avalable from ACS and Reserve Component Famly Programs a copy of mltary and cvlan communty phone drectores of mportant resources copes of Operaton READY chldrens workbooks for the approprate ages (also avalable from ACS and Reserve Component Famly Programs). Introduce yourself (FRG leader) to Solders and famles at pre-deployment brefings, FRG meetngs, and other opportuntes that arse. (Note, f tme and space permt, a short FRG meetng can be conducted followng a pre-deployment brefing.) These occasons are an opportunty to talk about the FRG and explan the benefits of partcpaton. Keep n mnd, ths s a bref sales presentaton. The first mpresson the FRG leader conveys and what s sad wll nfluence whether famles choose to partcpate or not; so t s mportant to plan and execute well. Provde famles wth pont of contact nformaton for both command and FRG.
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Coordnate wth PAO to provde nformaton to Solders and famles on how to deal wth the meda. Remnd spouses to check that they have access to mportant personal documents (e.g., power of attorney), safe depost box, car keys, checkbook, etc. and famly care plans f an emergency arses durng deployment. Dstrbute nformaton on Mltary One Source and Communty Mental Health resources. Gve all FRG members a pocket gude lst of emergency phone numbers on ther post ncludng RDC, RDNCO and FRG POC. Provde famles wth approprate nformaton and educaton materals such as: a copy of the Operaton READY Solder/Famly Deployment Handbook avalable from ACS and Reserve Component Famly Programs a copy of mltary and cvlan communty phone drectores of mportant resources copes of Operaton READY chldrens workbooks for the approprate ages (also avalable from ACS and Reserve Component Famly Programs). Introduce yourself (FRG leader) to Solders and famles at pre-deployment brefings, FRG meetngs, and other opportuntes that arse. (Note, f tme and space permt, a short FRG meetng can be conducted followng a pre-deployment brefing.) These occasons are an opportunty to talk about the FRG and explan the benefits of partcpaton. Keep n mnd, ths s a bref sales presentaton. The first mpresson the FRG leader conveys and what s sad wll nfluence whether famles choose to partcpate or not; so t s mportant to plan and execute well. Provde famles wth pont of contact nformaton for both command and FRG.
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Make sure Solders are told specfically to add any person (such as fiances, sgnficant others, parents, etc. ) on ther nformaton sheet that they would lke the FRG to contact. Make sure all FRG members have an FRG member on emergency pck up on school nformaton for chldren n case of emergency. Advse members to share wth school counselors that ther spouses are beng deployed so that schools may support or at least be aware of home stuaton. Make sure all spouses have AKO accounts. Ascertan whether famles have any questons, especally after pre-deployment brefings, and address famly questons as approprate. Conduct socal actvtes to buld famly camaradere. Encourage famles who are consderng leavng the area to notfy the unt and provde the FRG and RDC wth new contact nformaton.
Make sure Solders are told specfically to add any person (such as fiances, sgnficant others, parents, etc. ) on ther nformaton sheet that they would lke the FRG to contact. Make sure all FRG members have an FRG member on emergency pck up on school nformaton for chldren n case of emergency. Advse members to share wth school counselors that ther spouses are beng deployed so that schools may support or at least be aware of home stuaton. Make sure all spouses have AKO accounts. Ascertan whether famles have any questons, especally after pre-deployment brefings, and address famly questons as approprate. Conduct socal actvtes to buld famly camaradere. Encourage famles who are consderng leavng the area to notfy the unt and provde the FRG and RDC wth new contact nformaton.
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The FRG s responsble for keepng crtcal nformaton from command flowng to famles, a very mportant task durng deployment. Supportng famles, especally durng long and dangerous deployments, s another focus of the FRGs efforts at ths phase of the deployment cycle. To support famles effectvely, the FRG must reman connected wth famles, help famles solve problems and become reslent, and provde socal actvtes and other means to reduce stress and boost morale. In addton, the FRG (n partcular the FRG leader) wll need to work closely wth the command staff and establsh and mantan connectons wth key mltary and communty ndvduals and agences who can serve as a resource and support to the FRG.
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The FRG s responsble for keepng crtcal nformaton from command flowng to famles, a very mportant task durng deployment. Supportng famles, especally durng long and dangerous deployments, s another focus of the FRGs efforts at ths phase of the deployment cycle. To support famles effectvely, the FRG must reman connected wth famles, help famles solve problems and become reslent, and provde socal actvtes and other means to reduce stress and boost morale. In addton, the FRG (n partcular the FRG leader) wll need to work closely wth the command staff and establsh and mantan connectons wth key mltary and communty ndvduals and agences who can serve as a resource and support to the FRG.
Deployment
Mobilization Mobilization
Deployment
Employment
Employment
Redeployment
Redeployment
Reconstitution
Post Deployment
Reconstitution
Post Deployment
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Assisting Command With Family Communications and Managing FRG Activities

FRG LEADERS DEPLOYMENT AND EMPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Mantan communcaton wth RDC to: obtan support and assstance for FRG actvtes obtan company nformaton that s to be relayed to famles va FRG newsletter, telephone tree, emal, vFRG, and FRG meetngs dscuss content of FRG newsletter and obtan company commanders (RDCs) approval ensure that chldrens ssues are addressed and that age approprate actvtes are conducted wth chldren coordnate vdeo teleconference (VTC) tme for famles to communcate wth deployed Solders, f avalable revew assstance provded to famles and dscuss the famly problems/ssues/questons the FRG s unable to address and dentfy approprate referrals for these ssues assst famles of wounded or njured Solders when asked. Take care of yourself and FRG volunteers. Attend brefings. (Attendng brefings s mportant because t provdes an ongong opportunty to obtan mportant nformaton to pass on to famles, ntroduce the FRG leader and FRG, collect accurate famly nformaton on both company famles and famles of Solders who are temporarly assgned to the company, and meet famles.) Mantan communcaton wth other key mltary and cvlan communty representatves ncludng: FRG Deployment Support Assstant FRG advsor or steerng commttee leader Chaplan Army Communty Servce Army Natonal Guard State Famly Program Office Army Reserve Regonal Readness Command Famly Programs Office. Arrange guest speakers from ACS, Reserve Component Famly Programs Office and other agences to talk or to conduct brefings
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Assisting Command With Family Communications and Managing FRG Activities

FRG LEADERS DEPLOYMENT AND EMPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Mantan communcaton wth RDC to: obtan support and assstance for FRG actvtes obtan company nformaton that s to be relayed to famles va FRG newsletter, telephone tree, emal, vFRG, and FRG meetngs dscuss content of FRG newsletter and obtan company commanders (RDCs) approval ensure that chldrens ssues are addressed and that age approprate actvtes are conducted wth chldren coordnate vdeo teleconference (VTC) tme for famles to communcate wth deployed Solders, f avalable revew assstance provded to famles and dscuss the famly problems/ssues/questons the FRG s unable to address and dentfy approprate referrals for these ssues assst famles of wounded or njured Solders when asked. Take care of yourself and FRG volunteers. Attend brefings. (Attendng brefings s mportant because t provdes an ongong opportunty to obtan mportant nformaton to pass on to famles, ntroduce the FRG leader and FRG, collect accurate famly nformaton on both company famles and famles of Solders who are temporarly assgned to the company, and meet famles.) Mantan communcaton wth other key mltary and cvlan communty representatves ncludng: FRG Deployment Support Assstant FRG advsor or steerng commttee leader Chaplan Army Communty Servce Army Natonal Guard State Famly Program Office Army Reserve Regonal Readness Command Famly Programs Office. Arrange guest speakers from ACS, Reserve Component Famly Programs Office and other agences to talk or to conduct brefings
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for famles at FRG meetngs that address ssues such as copng wth separaton, dealng wth lonelness, securng home/safety, dealng wth the meda, and other ssues of nterest to famly members. Manage gossp and rumors. Ensure there s a set dagram of how and when and from whom offical nformaton wll be dstrbuted. Explan only offical chan of nformaton s vald. Make weekly phone contact wth FRG members. Adjust the breadth and frequency of FRG actvtes throughout the deployment perod to address famly needs and based on command drecton. Plan and conduct socal actvtes. Take steps to encourage and sustan partcpaton n FRG meetngs and actvtes. (See secton enttled Sustanng the FRG n Secton 3 of Part 3 of ths handbook.) Attend regular meetng or brefing sessons wth the garrson commander and rear detachment commander. Mantan communcaton among FRG staff to plan, coordnate, and conduct FRG actvtes; montor actvtes and FRG procedures (e.g., key caller protocol); and dentfy emergng famly ssues. Ensure accurate nformaton s dstrbuted n a tmely manner. Ths s mportant throughout the deployment and wll be very mportant f somethng happens to the unt. Help dspel rumors when possble. Notfy FRG members of communty programs of nterest. These programs can be dentfied by checkng out key web stes (such as www.MyArmyLfeToo.com and www.armyfrg.org), revewng mltary publcatons (such as newspapers, MWR newsletter), and through communcatons wth mltary and communty ndvduals and agences. Attend nstallaton/communty FRG Forum meetngs to dscuss and seek help from other FRG leaders on how to address FRG and famly ssues.
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for famles at FRG meetngs that address ssues such as copng wth separaton, dealng wth lonelness, securng home/safety, dealng wth the meda, and other ssues of nterest to famly members. Manage gossp and rumors. Ensure there s a set dagram of how and when and from whom offical nformaton wll be dstrbuted. Explan only offical chan of nformaton s vald. Make weekly phone contact wth FRG members. Adjust the breadth and frequency of FRG actvtes throughout the deployment perod to address famly needs and based on command drecton. Plan and conduct socal actvtes. Take steps to encourage and sustan partcpaton n FRG meetngs and actvtes. (See secton enttled Sustanng the FRG n Secton 3 of Part 3 of ths handbook.) Attend regular meetng or brefing sessons wth the garrson commander and rear detachment commander. Mantan communcaton among FRG staff to plan, coordnate, and conduct FRG actvtes; montor actvtes and FRG procedures (e.g., key caller protocol); and dentfy emergng famly ssues. Ensure accurate nformaton s dstrbuted n a tmely manner. Ths s mportant throughout the deployment and wll be very mportant f somethng happens to the unt. Help dspel rumors when possble. Notfy FRG members of communty programs of nterest. These programs can be dentfied by checkng out key web stes (such as www.MyArmyLfeToo.com and www.armyfrg.org), revewng mltary publcatons (such as newspapers, MWR newsletter), and through communcatons wth mltary and communty ndvduals and agences. Attend nstallaton/communty FRG Forum meetngs to dscuss and seek help from other FRG leaders on how to address FRG and famly ssues.
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Maintaining Communications With Families

Provdng accurate tmely nformaton to Solders famles (mmedate and extended) s the FRGs prmary role throughout the months of deployment. To help famles cope wth the stresses of deployment, a varety of efforts should also be made to get famles out, reduce solaton, and help famly members connect wth each other. Dont forget to contact and nvolve new famly members as new Solders are added to the company. Addtonally, try to assst famles n solvng ssues to reduce demands on company leadershp. FRGS DEPLOYMENT AND EMPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Dssemnate nformaton about the company and FRG to famles usng the phone tree, vrtual FRG web ste, emal, FRG newsletter, and FRG meetngs. Encourage famles to attend brefings. Provde mportant nformaton dssemnated at brefings to famles. Encourage famles to provde the FRG wth contact nformaton f they move. Provde nformaton on how famles can contact Solders whle deployed. Encourage frequent contact wth Solders. Coordnate wth RDC to provde VTC tme for Solders and famles. Mantan communcaton and connecton wth famles. Use a varety of methods such as telephone calls, FRG newsletter, FRG actvtes, and vFRG web ste. Dont forget to mantan contact wth caregvers who are takng care of chldren of sngle parents and dual-mltary couples and those famly members who are geographcally dsplaced from the group. Provde famles wth approprate nformaton and educaton materals avalable. Gve out resource nformaton so famles can get help when needed and pass nformaton on to other famles wth whom they may be n contact. Have guest speakers at FRG meetngs and events.
Maintaining Communications With Families
Provdng accurate tmely nformaton to Solders famles (mmedate and extended) s the FRGs prmary role throughout the months of deployment. To help famles cope wth the stresses of deployment, a varety of efforts should also be made to get famles out, reduce solaton, and help famly members connect wth each other. Dont forget to contact and nvolve new famly members as new Solders are added to the company. Addtonally, try to assst famles n solvng ssues to reduce demands on company leadershp. FRGS DEPLOYMENT AND EMPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Dssemnate nformaton about the company and FRG to famles usng the phone tree, vrtual FRG web ste, emal, FRG newsletter, and FRG meetngs. Encourage famles to attend brefings. Provde mportant nformaton dssemnated at brefings to famles. Encourage famles to provde the FRG wth contact nformaton f they move. Provde nformaton on how famles can contact Solders whle deployed. Encourage frequent contact wth Solders. Coordnate wth RDC to provde VTC tme for Solders and famles. Mantan communcaton and connecton wth famles. Use a varety of methods such as telephone calls, FRG newsletter, FRG actvtes, and vFRG web ste. Dont forget to mantan contact wth caregvers who are takng care of chldren of sngle parents and dual-mltary couples and those famly members who are geographcally dsplaced from the group. Provde famles wth approprate nformaton and educaton materals avalable. Gve out resource nformaton so famles can get help when needed and pass nformaton on to other famles wth whom they may be n contact. Have guest speakers at FRG meetngs and events.
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Refer famles to the approprate resource when needed. For a lst of resources, see the Operaton READY Smart Book. Provde nformaton and refer famles to programs of nterest that are beng offered by the communty. Introduce yourself (FRG leader) to famles at brefings, FRG meetngs, and other opportuntes that arse. Ensure famles have pont of contact nformaton for both command and FRG. Ascertan whether famles have any questons, especally after brefings, and address famly questons as approprate. Coordnate or refer famles to actvtes for chldren. Conduct socal actvtes as needed to provde stress relef and reduce famly lonelness. Explan the mportance of contactng someone from the FRG ANY-TIME famly members go out of town and be sure to have a cell phone number/emergency contact number for all FRG members.
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Refer famles to the approprate resource when needed. For a lst of resources, see the Operaton READY Smart Book. Provde nformaton and refer famles to programs of nterest that are beng offered by the communty. Introduce yourself (FRG leader) to famles at brefings, FRG meetngs, and other opportuntes that arse. Ensure famles have pont of contact nformaton for both command and FRG. Ascertan whether famles have any questons, especally after brefings, and address famly questons as approprate. Coordnate or refer famles to actvtes for chldren. Conduct socal actvtes as needed to provde stress relef and reduce famly lonelness. Explan the mportance of contactng someone from the FRG ANY-TIME famly members go out of town and be sure to have a cell phone number/emergency contact number for all FRG members.
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Deployment Issues
Each deployment s unque. Whle some ssues typcally occur wth each deployment, unusual ssues can also arse durng a deployment. Havng nformaton and gudance are essental to beng able to respond effectvely. Ths secton hghlghts three ssues that are ncreasngly mportant and call for specfic actons to be taken. Addtonal nformaton on these ssues s avalable n the Operaton READY Smart Book and n other Operaton READY materals.
Helpful nformaton can also be found at the followng web stes: http://www.mltaryonesource.com http://mltarychld.org/ http://www.myarmylfetoo.com http://deploymentconnectons.dod. ml http://www.nmfa.org http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/war/fs_ chldren_war.html http://www.mltarystudent.dod.ml http://www.armyteenpanel.army.ml http://www.defenselnk.ml/mtom/
Deployment Issues
CASUALTY AND TRAUMA IN THE UNIT CHILDRENS NEEDS AND One of the most dfficult stuatons REACTIONS TO DEPLOYMENT to deal wth n any unt s trauma, Chldren react to deployments and whether the njury or death the separaton from parents n dffer- nvolves a Solder or a famly ent ways. They need to be supported as well. The FRG can plan age-approprate events for chldren and/or By definition, a casualty is any arrange specal speakers at FRG person lost to the organizameetngs to address ssues famles tion by reason of having been are experencng. The FRG can also declared beleaguered, besieged, dssemnate nformaton to famles captured, dead, diseased, to help deal wth chldrens ssues detained, Duty Status Wherepre-, durng, and post deployment. abouts Unknown, injured, ill, The Operaton READY materals to interned, missing, missing in promote are the chldrens workbook action or wounded. There are seres and a Chldren and Deployseven casualty statuses: ment Cycle handbook for parents. A Deceased module on chldrens ssues durng Duty statusWhereabouts wartme s avalable onlne or from Unknown (DUSTWUN) Army Communty Servce. In add Missing in Action (MIA) ton, a varety of Chldren and Youth Very Seriously Injured or Ill Servces (CYS) materals and pro(VSI) grams are avalable to help chldren Seriously Injured or Ill (SI) and parents. Not seriously Injured (NSI).
CASUALTY AND TRAUMA IN THE UNIT CHILDRENS NEEDS AND One of the most dfficult stuatons REACTIONS TO DEPLOYMENT to deal wth n any unt s trauma, Chldren react to deployments and whether the njury or death the separaton from parents n dffer- nvolves a Solder or a famly ent ways. They need to be supported as well. The FRG can plan age-approprate events for chldren and/or By definition, a casualty is any arrange specal speakers at FRG person lost to the organizameetngs to address ssues famles tion by reason of having been are experencng. The FRG can also declared beleaguered, besieged, dssemnate nformaton to famles captured, dead, diseased, to help deal wth chldrens ssues detained, Duty Status Wherepre-, durng, and post deployment. abouts Unknown, injured, ill, The Operaton READY materals to interned, missing, missing in promote are the chldrens workbook action or wounded. There are seres and a Chldren and Deployseven casualty statuses: ment Cycle handbook for parents. A Deceased module on chldrens ssues durng Duty statusWhereabouts wartme s avalable onlne or from Unknown (DUSTWUN) Army Communty Servce. In add Missing in Action (MIA) ton, a varety of Chldren and Youth Very Seriously Injured or Ill Servces (CYS) materals and pro(VSI) grams are avalable to help chldren Seriously Injured or Ill (SI) and parents. Not seriously Injured (NSI).
Each deployment s unque. Whle some ssues typcally occur wth each deployment, unusual ssues can also arse durng a deployment. Havng nformaton and gudance are essental to beng able to respond effectvely. Ths secton hghlghts three ssues that are ncreasngly mportant and call for specfic actons to be taken. Addtonal nformaton on these ssues s avalable n the Operaton READY Smart Book and n other Operaton READY materals.
Helpful nformaton can also be found at the followng web stes: http://www.mltaryonesource.com http://mltarychld.org/ http://www.myarmylfetoo.com http://deploymentconnectons.dod. ml http://www.nmfa.org http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/war/fs_ chldren_war.html http://www.mltarystudent.dod.ml http://www.armyteenpanel.army.ml http://www.defenselnk.ml/mtom/
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member. Notficaton and assstance s not a functon of the FRG, but the FRG can play a role n helpng both ndvduals and the unt. Supporting the family. In the event of a serous njury or death of a Solder, the mltary s responsble for casualty notficaton and helpng famly members. The notficaton process depends upon the casualty status and locaton of the next of kn. Typcally, the ncdent s first reported by the commander to the Casualty Operatons Branch, Human Resources Command. Once the Casualty Area Command (CAC) has confirmed the ncdent, t produces an ntal casualty report. If the Solder s wounded n acton (WIA), then notficaton s made by telephone. If the Solder s deceased, Duty status Whereabouts Unknown (DUSTWUN), or MIA, a casualty notficaton officer, generally accompaned by a chaplan, vsts the prmary next of kn (PNOK) to notfy the famly n person. Followng notficaton, a casualty assstance officer (CAO) vsts the famly to assst wth survvor benefits, funeral arrangements, personnel-related matters, and emotonal support. The Publc Affars Office may also contact the famly to offer assstance n dealng wth the meda. The Casualty Notficaton Officer or Chaplan wll notfy the brgade or battalon RDC who wll send out a care team f the famly requests assstance.
A word of caution.
The spouse of the deceased Soldier identifies who she/he would like to provide comfort to the family. The rear detachment commander will identify and assemble the care team from a list of trained care team volunteers, based upon the spouses request. When a unit sustains several casualties at once, the battalion commander may request other battalions care teams to assist. Care teams report to the RDC and not the FRG leader. The care team may need to be debriefed by someone who is experienced in trauma. Often school districts near bases have crisis response teams trained and in place for crisis intervention. School districts are often very open to helping with crisis intervention by supplying trained professionals to debrief Care Teams assisting a casualtys family. Army Community Service Family Advocacy Specialists or Chaplains can also debrief the care team.
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member. Notficaton and assstance s not a functon of the FRG, but the FRG can play a role n helpng both ndvduals and the unt. Supporting the family. In the event of a serous njury or death of a Solder, the mltary s responsble for casualty notficaton and helpng famly members. The notficaton process depends upon the casualty status and locaton of the next of kn. Typcally, the ncdent s first reported by the commander to the Casualty Operatons Branch, Human Resources Command. Once the Casualty Area Command (CAC) has confirmed the ncdent, t produces an ntal casualty report. If the Solder s wounded n acton (WIA), then notficaton s made by telephone. If the Solder s deceased, Duty status Whereabouts Unknown (DUSTWUN), or MIA, a casualty notficaton officer, generally accompaned by a chaplan, vsts the prmary next of kn (PNOK) to notfy the famly n person. Followng notficaton, a casualty assstance officer (CAO) vsts the famly to assst wth survvor benefits, funeral arrangements, personnel-related matters, and emotonal support. The Publc Affars Office may also contact the famly to offer assstance n dealng wth the meda. The Casualty Notficaton Officer or Chaplan wll notfy the brgade or battalon RDC who wll send out a care team f the famly requests assstance.
A word of caution.
The spouse of the deceased Soldier identifies who she/he would like to provide comfort to the family. The rear detachment commander will identify and assemble the care team from a list of trained care team volunteers, based upon the spouses request. When a unit sustains several casualties at once, the battalion commander may request other battalions care teams to assist. Care teams report to the RDC and not the FRG leader. The care team may need to be debriefed by someone who is experienced in trauma. Often school districts near bases have crisis response teams trained and in place for crisis intervention. School districts are often very open to helping with crisis intervention by supplying trained professionals to debrief Care Teams assisting a casualtys family. Army Community Service Family Advocacy Specialists or Chaplains can also debrief the care team.
The Battalon Care Team offers short-term emotonal and logstcal support to famles of njured and deceased Solders. The care team can also serve as a facltator to all the
The Battalon Care Team offers short-term emotonal and logstcal support to famles of njured and deceased Solders. The care team can also serve as a facltator to all the
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well-ntended outsde support untl the famlys own support system begns to work. The support provded and the ways n whch the care team asssts a famly wll depend on the famlys requested needs. The servces care teams can provde nclude: call support (e.g., screen calls per famlys wshes, keep phone log of calls to famly, help famly dentfy whom THE FAMILY needs to contact) home care assstance (e.g., arrange for help wth laundry, lawn care, pet care or boardng, and other household matters n whch famly may need assstance; keep log of cards/flowers sent to famly; stop mal and newspaper whle famly on travel to medcal faclty; reschedule appontments; run errands) keep log of questons the famly wants to ask the Casualty Assstance Officer meal support baby st or make temporary chld care arrangements assst vstng famly members and frends wth nstallaton access, lodgng and transportaton, as needed
house st (or arrange MP/cvlan polce to check on house) whle the famly vsts a hosptalzed Solder. The care team can provde these servces themselves or coordnate the servces needed (e.g., get ndvduals to assst wth meal support). The team provdes only what the famly requests. Ths short-term care s generally provded for 7 to 14 days. However, support may be provded for a longer perod, especally for famles of njured Solders. The length of tme the care team serves wll depend on the famlys needs and support network. Support to the unit. Once the famly has been notfied, the RDC communcates wth the FRG leader to arrange a brefing for all other spouses and famly members n the unt. FRG key callers are to contact famly members about the brefing date and locaton. A scrpted message wll be provded by the RDC to be used when contactng famles. No other nformaton s to be gven out durng the phone calls. Be sure the affected famly s not called and that rumor control s emphaszed. In addton, t s helpful f the RDC and/or FRG leader can arrange to have the Chaplan talk wth famles (or FRG) about the grevng process and approprate responses. Addtonal nformaton related to care teams and casualty stuatons s provded n the Operaton READY Smart Book and addressed n Operaton READY Trauma n the Unt handbook and tranng materals.
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well-ntended outsde support untl the famlys own support system begns to work. The support provded and the ways n whch the care team asssts a famly wll depend on the famlys requested needs. The servces care teams can provde nclude: call support (e.g., screen calls per famlys wshes, keep phone log of calls to famly, help famly dentfy whom THE FAMILY needs to contact) home care assstance (e.g., arrange for help wth laundry, lawn care, pet care or boardng, and other household matters n whch famly may need assstance; keep log of cards/flowers sent to famly; stop mal and newspaper whle famly on travel to medcal faclty; reschedule appontments; run errands) keep log of questons the famly wants to ask the Casualty Assstance Officer meal support baby st or make temporary chld care arrangements assst vstng famly members and frends wth nstallaton access, lodgng and transportaton, as needed
house st (or arrange MP/cvlan polce to check on house) whle the famly vsts a hosptalzed Solder. The care team can provde these servces themselves or coordnate the servces needed (e.g., get ndvduals to assst wth meal support). The team provdes only what the famly requests. Ths short-term care s generally provded for 7 to 14 days. However, support may be provded for a longer perod, especally for famles of njured Solders. The length of tme the care team serves wll depend on the famlys needs and support network. Support to the unit. Once the famly has been notfied, the RDC communcates wth the FRG leader to arrange a brefing for all other spouses and famly members n the unt. FRG key callers are to contact famly members about the brefing date and locaton. A scrpted message wll be provded by the RDC to be used when contactng famles. No other nformaton s to be gven out durng the phone calls. Be sure the affected famly s not called and that rumor control s emphaszed. In addton, t s helpful f the RDC and/or FRG leader can arrange to have the Chaplan talk wth famles (or FRG) about the grevng process and approprate responses. Addtonal nformaton related to care teams and casualty stuatons s provded n the Operaton READY Smart Book and addressed n Operaton READY Trauma n the Unt handbook and tranng materals.
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Keep in mind the care team members will need support too. FRG members can support the care team with an occasional meal and child care when possible.
Tip
Keep in mind the care team members will need support too. FRG members can support the care team with an occasional meal and child care when possible.
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TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF AND FRG VOLUNTEERS Gven the hgh level of demands placed on an FRG leader and FRG staff, t s mportant to take steps to reduce stress and mantan personal well-beng. For tps, consult the Copng wth Stress fact sheet n the Operaton READY Smart Book. If there s a casualty or trauma n the unt, t s mportant to allow yourself and the members of the FRG to greve. Know the resources n the communty and use them.
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TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF AND FRG VOLUNTEERS Gven the hgh level of demands placed on an FRG leader and FRG staff, t s mportant to take steps to reduce stress and mantan personal well-beng. For tps, consult the Copng wth Stress fact sheet n the Operaton READY Smart Book. If there s a casualty or trauma n the unt, t s mportant to allow yourself and the members of the FRG to greve. Know the resources n the communty and use them.
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4.3 Redeployment
Redeployment s the pont n the deployment cycle when Solders prepare to return and out-process at deployment ste or n the theatre of operatons. It s generally a bref perod of tme rangng anywhere from five to 30 days. Redeployment also refers to ndvdual Solders who return md-tour for an approxmately two-week perod known as R&R Ths s a key tme . to prepare (f ths has not been done n the last month of the deployment phase) or contnue preparng famles for Solders return and rentegraton nto the famly. Spouse and famly educaton s an mportant actvty n ths phase.
4.3 Redeployment 4
Redeployment s the pont n the deployment cycle when Solders prepare to return and out-process at deployment ste or n the theatre of operatons. It s generally a bref perod of tme rangng anywhere from five to 30 days. Redeployment also refers to ndvdual Solders who return md-tour for an approxmately two-week perod known as R&R Ths s a key tme . to prepare (f ths has not been done n the last month of the deployment phase) or contnue preparng famles for Solders return and rentegraton nto the famly. Spouse and famly educaton s an mportant actvty n ths phase.
Deployment
Deployment
Mobilization
Employment
Mobilization
Employment
Redeployment
Redeployment
Reconstitution
Post Deployment
Reconstitution
Post Deployment
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Assisting Command With Reunion Preparations and FRG Planning

FRG LEADERS REDEPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Contact or meet wth the rear detachment commander to: obtan partculars (date, tme and locaton) about return of company and ndvdual Solders, reunon brefings, and company (and nstallaton) homecomng actvtes n order to notfy famles per command approval AND to dscuss how the FRG can and wll support company actvtes, partcularly welcome home events. (Note: Homecomng ceremones/ actvtes are a company and nstallaton responsblty.) get nformaton on reunon and rentegraton tranng conducted for famles by ACS, Reserve Component Famly Programs, Chaplans and other mltary agences; also assst n coordnatng meetngs/actvtes held specfically for the company to help prepare famles for reunon ssues get nformaton on brefings and nformaton for famles by Mental Health Servces on health symptoms and potental sgns and symptoms of dstress ensure that chldrens ssues are addressed n reunon brefings and that age approprate actvtes are conducted wth chldren dentfy at-rsk famles and famles who have experenced sgnficant problems durng the deployment. Also dentfy potental famly ssues to advse company commander. Arrange guest speakers (such as Chaplan or ACS) to talk at FRG meetngs about reunon and rentegraton ssues, ncludng such topcs as stress management, martal ssues, chldrens reactons to a returnng parent, returnng to work ssues, combat stress and Post-Traumatc Stress Dsorder (PTSD), and benefit changes. Also consder havng the PAO talk about dealng wth the meda snce the meda may be present at welcome home events. Revew plans of how the FRG wll support Solders and famles durng the post deployment phase.
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Assisting Command With Reunion Preparations and FRG Planning

FRG LEADERS REDEPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Contact or meet wth the rear detachment commander to: obtan partculars (date, tme and locaton) about return of company and ndvdual Solders, reunon brefings, and company (and nstallaton) homecomng actvtes n order to notfy famles per command approval AND to dscuss how the FRG can and wll support company actvtes, partcularly welcome home events. (Note: Homecomng ceremones/ actvtes are a company and nstallaton responsblty.) get nformaton on reunon and rentegraton tranng conducted for famles by ACS, Reserve Component Famly Programs, Chaplans and other mltary agences; also assst n coordnatng meetngs/actvtes held specfically for the company to help prepare famles for reunon ssues get nformaton on brefings and nformaton for famles by Mental Health Servces on health symptoms and potental sgns and symptoms of dstress ensure that chldrens ssues are addressed n reunon brefings and that age approprate actvtes are conducted wth chldren dentfy at-rsk famles and famles who have experenced sgnficant problems durng the deployment. Also dentfy potental famly ssues to advse company commander. Arrange guest speakers (such as Chaplan or ACS) to talk at FRG meetngs about reunon and rentegraton ssues, ncludng such topcs as stress management, martal ssues, chldrens reactons to a returnng parent, returnng to work ssues, combat stress and Post-Traumatc Stress Dsorder (PTSD), and benefit changes. Also consder havng the PAO talk about dealng wth the meda snce the meda may be present at welcome home events. Revew plans of how the FRG wll support Solders and famles durng the post deployment phase.
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Preparing Families For Reunion and Supporting Families of Soldiers on R & R

Wth lmted tme avalable, the FRGs efforts n ths area are lkely to start durng ths phase and contnue nto the post deployment phase. Preparng famles for reunon and rentegraton of Solders needs to begn pror to Solders return. Wthn ths phase, do not forget to support the subgroup of famles who are havng a bref reunon wth Solders home on R & R. These famles may be experencng ssues n whch the FRG can offer support. FRGS REDEPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Announce to famles redeployment dates once RDC authorzes nformaton for release. (Note: The RDC may elect to call or have the FRGDA call all famles.) State that often dates and tmes of redeployments change at the last mnute; emphasze flexblty. Provde famles wth tentatve post deployment schedule (.e., mandatory rentegraton tranng schedule, block leave nformaton, etc.). Let famles know what to expect and have a meetng wth an open floor for questons regardng redeployment. Have RDC and RDNCO and Battalon FRG leader there to answer questons. Notfy spouses that the chaplan can conduct a martal assessment to help spouses dentfy and prepare for potental relatonshp ssues durng reunon. Dssemnate nformaton about upcomng reunon brefings and homecomng actvtes to be held once the Solders return. Use the phone tree and emal to notfy famles and encourage attendance. Provde famles wth approprate educaton and nformaton materals about reunon and rentegraton ssues. Use FRG newsletter, vFRG web ste, and guest speakers at an FRG meetng as forums for talkng about these ssues. When presentng ths nformaton, be sure to dentfy resources where Solders and famles can get help f needed. Have PAO provde famles wth nformaton on how to deal wth the meda. Arrange to have Mltary Famly Lfe Consultants on hand at recepton ste for those famles or Solders who may need support.
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Preparing Families For Reunion and Supporting Families of Soldiers on R & R

Wth lmted tme avalable, the FRGs efforts n ths area are lkely to start durng ths phase and contnue nto the post deployment phase. Preparng famles for reunon and rentegraton of Solders needs to begn pror to Solders return. Wthn ths phase, do not forget to support the subgroup of famles who are havng a bref reunon wth Solders home on R & R. These famles may be experencng ssues n whch the FRG can offer support. FRGS REDEPLOYMENT CHECKLIST Announce to famles redeployment dates once RDC authorzes nformaton for release. (Note: The RDC may elect to call or have the FRGDA call all famles.) State that often dates and tmes of redeployments change at the last mnute; emphasze flexblty. Provde famles wth tentatve post deployment schedule (.e., mandatory rentegraton tranng schedule, block leave nformaton, etc.). Let famles know what to expect and have a meetng wth an open floor for questons regardng redeployment. Have RDC and RDNCO and Battalon FRG leader there to answer questons. Notfy spouses that the chaplan can conduct a martal assessment to help spouses dentfy and prepare for potental relatonshp ssues durng reunon. Dssemnate nformaton about upcomng reunon brefings and homecomng actvtes to be held once the Solders return. Use the phone tree and emal to notfy famles and encourage attendance. Provde famles wth approprate educaton and nformaton materals about reunon and rentegraton ssues. Use FRG newsletter, vFRG web ste, and guest speakers at an FRG meetng as forums for talkng about these ssues. When presentng ths nformaton, be sure to dentfy resources where Solders and famles can get help f needed. Have PAO provde famles wth nformaton on how to deal wth the meda. Arrange to have Mltary Famly Lfe Consultants on hand at recepton ste for those famles or Solders who may need support.
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4.4 Post Deployment and Reconstitution Phases 4

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In the post deployment and reconsttuton phases, Solders return to home staton, complete redeployment and demoblzaton processng (.e., reverse SRP and medcal screenng), and begn the process of rentegratng nto famly lfe and the communty. (The Army refers to the rentegraton process as reconsttuton phase.) Guard and Reserve also face readjustment to ther cvlan jobs. Both Solders and famly members go through an adjustment perod. The length of the adjustment perod vares across Solders and famles. It s mportant to montor Solders and famles wellbeng for many months to ensure Solders and famles receve the support needed wth transton ssues Informaton and referral are mportant FRG actvtes durng the post deployment phase, especally for Reserve Component Solders who may not lve near a mltary nstallaton. The FRG should dstrbute nformaton on how to access post deployment resources such as Mltary One Source and Mltary Famly Lfe Consultants.
4.4 Post Deployment and Reconstitution Phases 4

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In the post deployment and reconsttuton phases, Solders return to home staton, complete redeployment and demoblzaton processng (.e., reverse SRP and medcal screenng), and begn the process of rentegratng nto famly lfe and the communty. (The Army refers to the rentegraton process as reconsttuton phase.) Guard and Reserve also face readjustment to ther cvlan jobs. Both Solders and famly members go through an adjustment perod. The length of the adjustment perod vares across Solders and famles. It s mportant to montor Solders and famles wellbeng for many months to ensure Solders and famles receve the support needed wth transton ssues Informaton and referral are mportant FRG actvtes durng the post deployment phase, especally for Reserve Component Solders who may not lve near a mltary nstallaton. The FRG should dstrbute nformaton on how to access post deployment resources such as Mltary One Source and Mltary Famly Lfe Consultants.
Deployment
Deployment
Mobilization
Employment
Mobilization
Employment
Redeployment
Redeployment
Reconstitution
Post Deployment
Reconstitution
Post Deployment
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Assisting Command With Post Deployment and Reconstitution Tasks

FRG LEADERS POST DEPLOYMENT AND RECONSTITUTION CHECKLIST Communcate wth the rear detachment and/or company commander to: obtan partculars (date, tme and locaton) about return of company and ndvdual Solders, reunon brefings, and company (and nstallaton) homecomng actvtes n order to notfy famles assst n coordnatng tranngs/classes by Mltary Famly Lfe Consultants, ACS, Reserve Component Famly Programs, Chaplans, and other agences to help Solders and famles wth reunon and rentegraton ssues; ensure attenton s gven to the transton ssues of Reserve and Guard Solders ensure that chldrens ssues are addressed n reunon brefings and that age approprate actvtes are conducted wth chldren dscuss famly problems/ssues/questons that FRG s unable to address and dentfy approprate referrals for these ssues dentfy at-rsk famles and famles who have experenced sgnficant problems durng the deployment. Also dentfy potental famly ssues to advse company commander dentfy famles wth hgh levels of reported stress/separaton ssues after Solders return. Arrange guest speakers to talk at FRG meetngs about reunon ssues, ncludng such topcs as stress management, martal ssues, chldrens reactons to a returnng parent, returnng to work ssues, and combat operatonal stress reacton and Post-Traumatc Stress Dsorder (PTSD). Partcpate n the companys Solder and famly welcomng events and offical homecomng events based on FRG leaders dscussons wth command. Attend brefings and homecomng events. Ensure key callers are aware of resources so they can provde approprate referrals to famles. Start thnkng about lessons learned and preparng the after acton report.
Assisting Command With Post Deployment and Reconstitution Tasks

FRG LEADERS POST DEPLOYMENT AND RECONSTITUTION CHECKLIST Communcate wth the rear detachment and/or company commander to: obtan partculars (date, tme and locaton) about return of company and ndvdual Solders, reunon brefings, and company (and nstallaton) homecomng actvtes n order to notfy famles assst n coordnatng tranngs/classes by Mltary Famly Lfe Consultants, ACS, Reserve Component Famly Programs, Chaplans, and other agences to help Solders and famles wth reunon and rentegraton ssues; ensure attenton s gven to the transton ssues of Reserve and Guard Solders ensure that chldrens ssues are addressed n reunon brefings and that age approprate actvtes are conducted wth chldren dscuss famly problems/ssues/questons that FRG s unable to address and dentfy approprate referrals for these ssues dentfy at-rsk famles and famles who have experenced sgnficant problems durng the deployment. Also dentfy potental famly ssues to advse company commander dentfy famles wth hgh levels of reported stress/separaton ssues after Solders return. Arrange guest speakers to talk at FRG meetngs about reunon ssues, ncludng such topcs as stress management, martal ssues, chldrens reactons to a returnng parent, returnng to work ssues, and combat operatonal stress reacton and Post-Traumatc Stress Dsorder (PTSD). Partcpate n the companys Solder and famly welcomng events and offical homecomng events based on FRG leaders dscussons wth command. Attend brefings and homecomng events. Ensure key callers are aware of resources so they can provde approprate referrals to famles. Start thnkng about lessons learned and preparng the after acton report.
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Supporting Families with Reunion and Reintegration
Supporting Families with Reunion and Reintegration
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Preparng famles for reunon and supportng famles durng reunon and rentegraton are mportant snce ths s another challengng tme for Solders and famles. Whle the level of FRG actvtes wll decrease after reunons, t s mportant to mantan perodc communcatons wth famles to montor ther well-beng and to sustan camaradere. FRGS POST DEPLOYMENT AND RECONSTITUTION CHECKLIST Dssemnate nformaton about reunon and other brefings, famly day actvtes, homecomng actvtes, and mportant materals usng the phone tree, vrtual FRG web ste, emal, FRG newsletter, and FRG meetngs. (Brefings and nformaton materals for Solders and famles need to address a varety of topcs ncludng finance, benefit changes, Trcare benefits, health care, transton enttlements, legal rghts, reemployment rghts, dstress symptoms, job assstance to Reserve Component Solders, chldrens adjustment, domestc volence, and other deployment-related problems.) Encourage famles to attend reunon and homecomng events. Provde mportant nformaton dssemnated at brefings to famles. Encourage Solders and famles to partcpate n helpful programs such as marrage enrchment and counselng through Mltary One Source. Provde famles wth approprate nformaton and educaton materals. Use FRG newsletter, vFRG web ste, and guest speakers at FRG meetngs as forums for talkng about ssues of concern. When presentng nformaton, be sure to dentfy resources where Solders and famles can get help f needed. Refer famles to helpful resources such as Mltary One Source, Mltary Famly Lfe Consultants, Chaplan, ACS, and JAG. Mantan communcaton and connecton wth famles. Provde referrals when necessary. Coordnate or refer famles to actvtes for chldren. Conduct socal actvtes as needed to releve stress and for camaradere.
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Preparng famles for reunon and supportng famles durng reunon and rentegraton are mportant snce ths s another challengng tme for Solders and famles. Whle the level of FRG actvtes wll decrease after reunons, t s mportant to mantan perodc communcatons wth famles to montor ther well-beng and to sustan camaradere. FRGS POST DEPLOYMENT AND RECONSTITUTION CHECKLIST Dssemnate nformaton about reunon and other brefings, famly day actvtes, homecomng actvtes, and mportant materals usng the phone tree, vrtual FRG web ste, emal, FRG newsletter, and FRG meetngs. (Brefings and nformaton materals for Solders and famles need to address a varety of topcs ncludng finance, benefit changes, Trcare benefits, health care, transton enttlements, legal rghts, reemployment rghts, dstress symptoms, job assstance to Reserve Component Solders, chldrens adjustment, domestc volence, and other deployment-related problems.) Encourage famles to attend reunon and homecomng events. Provde mportant nformaton dssemnated at brefings to famles. Encourage Solders and famles to partcpate n helpful programs such as marrage enrchment and counselng through Mltary One Source. Provde famles wth approprate nformaton and educaton materals. Use FRG newsletter, vFRG web ste, and guest speakers at FRG meetngs as forums for talkng about ssues of concern. When presentng nformaton, be sure to dentfy resources where Solders and famles can get help f needed. Refer famles to helpful resources such as Mltary One Source, Mltary Famly Lfe Consultants, Chaplan, ACS, and JAG. Mantan communcaton and connecton wth famles. Provde referrals when necessary. Coordnate or refer famles to actvtes for chldren. Conduct socal actvtes as needed to releve stress and for camaradere.
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Post Deployment Issues

Ths secton hghlghts ssues that demand careful attenton durng post deployment. These ssues are ncreasngly more prevalent gven the nature of the Armys mssons n the 21st century. Often, there s a reluctance of Solders to ask for help. The FRG can help Solders understand that askng for help s a sgn of strength, not of weakness. Fact sheets and addtonal nformaton are provded n the Operaton READY Smart Book. COMBAT OPERATIONAL STRESS REACTION: BATTLE FATIGUE Servce members may experence combat operatonal stress reacton (COSR) n combat and other dangerous mssons. The FRG, through the speakers and classes offered, can help famly members become aware of the physcal, mental, and emotonal symptoms of COSR. These sgns are normal for a person n combat stuatons and should fade wth tme. If symptoms become extreme, the famly should seek help for the Solder. For more nformaton, contact the Socal Work Care Manager Program at the nearest mltary medcal faclty, the nearest Veteran Admnstraton hosptal or clnc, or the local Veteran Center. All have counselors avalable to assst. Addtonal help s avalable through Mltary One Source, http://www. mltaryonesource.com and http:// chppm-www.apgea.army.ml/documents/TG/TECHGUID/TG240.pdf.
Signs of Combat Operation Stress Reaction

Physical Aches and pains Fidgeting Pounding heart Light-headedness Tingling of fingers and toes Stomach and bowel upsets Lack of energy Mental and emotional Anxiety Irritability Inability to focus or remember details Sleeplessness Grief Anger Loss of self esteem
Post Deployment Issues
Ths secton hghlghts ssues that demand careful attenton durng post deployment. These ssues are ncreasngly more prevalent gven the nature of the Armys mssons n the 21st century. Often, there s a reluctance of Solders to ask for help. The FRG can help Solders understand that askng for help s a sgn of strength, not of weakness. Fact sheets and addtonal nformaton are provded n the Operaton READY Smart Book. COMBAT OPERATIONAL STRESS REACTION: BATTLE FATIGUE Servce members may experence combat operatonal stress reacton (COSR) n combat and other dangerous mssons. The FRG, through the speakers and classes offered, can help famly members become aware of the physcal, mental, and emotonal symptoms of COSR. These sgns are normal for a person n combat stuatons and should fade wth tme. If symptoms become extreme, the famly should seek help for the Solder. For more nformaton, contact the Socal Work Care Manager Program at the nearest mltary medcal faclty, the nearest Veteran Admnstraton hosptal or clnc, or the local Veteran Center. All have counselors avalable to assst. Addtonal help s avalable through Mltary One Source, http://www. mltaryonesource.com and http:// chppm-www.apgea.army.ml/documents/TG/TECHGUID/TG240.pdf.
Signs of Combat Operation Stress Reaction

Physical Aches and pains Fidgeting Pounding heart Light-headedness Tingling of fingers and toes Stomach and bowel upsets Lack of energy Mental and emotional Anxiety Irritability Inability to focus or remember details Sleeplessness Grief Anger Loss of self esteem
POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD) In a tme of war and/or lengthy dangerous mssons, t s partcularly mportant to be aware of the causes and symptoms of post-traumatc stress dsorder to ensure Solders get the counselng and support needed. The FRG can make nformaton avalable to famly members that wll foster awareness of PTSD symptoms and the resources that are avalable for help.
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POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD) In a tme of war and/or lengthy dangerous mssons, t s partcularly mportant to be aware of the causes and symptoms of post-traumatc stress dsorder to ensure Solders get the counselng and support needed. The FRG can make nformaton avalable to famly members that wll foster awareness of PTSD symptoms and the resources that are avalable for help.
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PTSD s an extremely debltatng condton that can occur after exposure to a terrfyng event or ordeal n whch grave physcal harm occurred or was threatened. When ndvduals are exposed to events or objects remnscent of the trauma, many people wth PTSD frequently re-experence the ordeal n the form of flashback epsodes, memores, nghtmares, or frghtenng thoughts. Annversares of the event can also trgger symptoms. PTSD s a medcal dagnoss and s often dagnosed when symptoms last more than one month. Symptoms typcally begn wthn three months of a traumatc event, although occasonally they do not begn untl years later. Once PTSD occurs, the severty and duraton of the llness vares. For addtonal nformaton on PTSD and PTSD resources, see Operaton READY Smart Book.
Signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Emotional numbness Sleep disturbances Depression Anxiety Irritability or angry outbursts Guilt Headaches Gastrointestinal complaints Immune system problems Dizziness Chest pain or discomfort in other parts of the body Alcohol or substance abuse
4
Tab
PTSD s an extremely debltatng condton that can occur after exposure to a terrfyng event or ordeal n whch grave physcal harm occurred or was threatened. When ndvduals are exposed to events or objects remnscent of the trauma, many people wth PTSD frequently re-experence the ordeal n the form of flashback epsodes, memores, nghtmares, or frghtenng thoughts. Annversares of the event can also trgger symptoms. PTSD s a medcal dagnoss and s often dagnosed when symptoms last more than one month. Symptoms typcally begn wthn three months of a traumatc event, although occasonally they do not begn untl years later. Once PTSD occurs, the severty and duraton of the llness vares. For addtonal nformaton on PTSD and PTSD resources, see Operaton READY Smart Book.
Signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Emotional numbness Sleep disturbances Depression Anxiety Irritability or angry outbursts Guilt Headaches Gastrointestinal complaints Immune system problems Dizziness Chest pain or discomfort in other parts of the body Alcohol or substance abuse
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PART 5: SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS
PART 5: SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS
Here are the key ponts for FRG leaders to take away from ths handbook:
H In todays envronment wth frequent back-to-back
deployments, the FRG needs to be operatonal at all tmes. Both the FRG leader and company commander need to ensure an FRG leader and staff are mantaned even when the unt s at home. Wth the unpredctablty of when the next deployment wll occur, the FRG needs to be ready to assst command whenever an alert occurs. It s no longer feasble to start from scratch wth each deployment.
Here are the key ponts for FRG leaders to take away from ths handbook: 5
H In todays envronment wth frequent back-to-back
deployments, the FRG needs to be operatonal at all tmes. Both the FRG leader and company commander need to ensure an FRG leader and staff are mantaned even when the unt s at home. Wth the unpredctablty of when the next deployment wll occur, the FRG needs to be ready to assst command whenever an alert occurs. It s no longer feasble to start from scratch wth each deployment.
H The FRG s an offical Army program. It s mportant to become

famlar wth the polces and gudance pertanng to FRG operatons and actvtes. (See AR 608-1, Appendx J)
H The FRG s an offical Army program. It s mportant to become

famlar wth the polces and gudance pertanng to FRG operatons and actvtes. (See AR 608-1, Appendx J)
H The FRG s a command sponsored program. Runnng an

effectve FRG requres establshng a relatonshp wth command leadershp (whch ncludes the Rear Detachment Commander when the company deploys), mantanng two-way communcaton, and workng together as a team. Durng deployment, the RDC s the offical source of nformaton and vtal resource for an FRG. Mantanng communcaton s essental for ensurng famles get tmely and accurate nformaton and that the RDC and FRG can effectvely support famles together.
H The FRG s a command sponsored program. Runnng an

effectve FRG requres establshng a relatonshp wth command leadershp (whch ncludes the Rear Detachment Commander when the company deploys), mantanng two-way communcaton, and workng together as a team. Durng deployment, the RDC s the offical source of nformaton and vtal resource for an FRG. Mantanng communcaton s essental for ensurng famles get tmely and accurate nformaton and that the RDC and FRG can effectvely support famles together.
H Supportng Solders today nvolves supportng Solders

mmedate and extended famly members as well as other ndvduals dentfied by a Solder. An FRG needs to serve and support ths broader Solder famly .
H Supportng Solders today nvolves supportng Solders

mmedate and extended famly members as well as other ndvduals dentfied by a Solder. An FRG needs to serve and support ths broader Solder famly .
H The FRG leader s not expected to be the FRG and to do FRG

actvtes alone. Recrut the volunteers needed to carry out the requred FRG actvtes as well as those requested by command.
H The FRG leader s not expected to be the FRG and to do FRG

actvtes alone. Recrut the volunteers needed to carry out the requred FRG actvtes as well as those requested by command.
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5: SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS
5: SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS
H Success s determned by effectve teamwork at many levels,

wth the RDC, garrson commander, and mltary and communty agences. Ths wll ensure avalable use of resources and avod burnout by sharng responsbltes.
H Success s determned by effectve teamwork at many levels,

wth the RDC, garrson commander, and mltary and communty agences. Ths wll ensure avalable use of resources and avod burnout by sharng responsbltes.
Tab
Tab
H The FRG s not on ts own. Work wth company leadershp on

how to assst famles. Learn about and use the varous Army resources for FRGs and famles. Use ths handbook and other Operaton READY materals, whch have been specfically desgned to assst the FRG n ts efforts. Get nformaton and assstance from ACS/Famly Program Offices and the battalon FRG steerng commttee who are prepared to support FRGs.
H The FRG s not on ts own. Work wth company leadershp on

how to assst famles. Learn about and use the varous Army resources for FRGs and famles. Use ths handbook and other Operaton READY materals, whch have been specfically desgned to assst the FRG n ts efforts. Get nformaton and assstance from ACS/Famly Program Offices and the battalon FRG steerng commttee who are prepared to support FRGs.
H FRGs must reach out to all Solders and famles (mmedate

and extended) attached to the unt, no matter where they lve. Specal attenton should be gven to ensurng geographcally dspersed actve, Guard and Reserve famles have the nformaton and support they need to successfully manage Army lfe.
H FRGs must reach out to all Solders and famles (mmedate

and extended) attached to the unt, no matter where they lve. Specal attenton should be gven to ensurng geographcally dspersed actve, Guard and Reserve famles have the nformaton and support they need to successfully manage Army lfe.
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REFERENCES
REFERENCES
Documents
MILITARY REGULATIONS AR 600-8-1, Army Casualty Program (7 Aprl 2006) AR 608-1, Army Communty Servce Center Appendx J (July 2006) AE Regulaton 608-2, Famly Readness System (1 March 2005) AE Regulaton 600-8-108, Rear Detachment Command (10 August 2004) AE Pamphlet 600-8-108, Famly Readness Support Assstant Gude (4 Aprl 2005) USARC Regulaton 608-1, Famly Readness Handbook (1 August 2000) CFSC DOCUMENTS AND PUBLICATIONS AUSA Resoluton #B-1-06a/B-1-06b: Famly Readness Support for Parents [Informaton Paper]. (2005, September 15). Alexandra, VA: CFSC-FP. Burcham, J. (2005, July 26). Vrtual Famly Readness Group [Informaton Paper]. Alexandra, VA: U. S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. Burcham, J. (2005, July). Vrtual Famly Readness Group (vFRG) [Brefing]. Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. Chrstansen, H. (2005). Operaton Ready Process Acton Team (PAT) meetng on 7-9 July 2004: Meetng documentaton. Annapols, MD: OCC Group. Gudelnes for Establshng a vFRG. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U. S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. InterLock Performance Inc. (Aprl 2005). Draft Course Map for Famly Readness Group Leader [onlne tranng course]. Alexandra, VA: Author. Johnson, D. (2005, 6 June). Mult-Component Army Famly Support Network. Informaton brefing conducted at the Mult-Component Famly Support Network (MCFSN) Tranng Conference, Mam, FL. Mancn, D. (2005). Supportng Famles n an Expedtonary Army: Overvew and Phlosophy. In MCFSN Tranng Manual for MCFSN Tranng Conference, Mam, FL. Mancn, D. (2005). Supportng Famles n an Expedtonary Army: MultComponent Famly Support Network. In MCFSN Tranng Manual for MCFSN Tranng Conference, Mam, FL. Mancn, D. (2006). Rear Detachment Commanders Handbook on Famly Readness [Operaton READY Handbook]. Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army Communty and Famly Support Center. MCFSN Baselne Servces Reference Gude [Spral flp book n Multcomponent Famly Support Network Purple Box]. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army and Communty and Famly Support Center.
Documents
MILITARY REGULATIONS AR 600-8-1, Army Casualty Program (7 Aprl 2006) AR 608-1, Army Communty Servce Center Appendx J (July 2006) AE Regulaton 608-2, Famly Readness System (1 March 2005) AE Regulaton 600-8-108, Rear Detachment Command (10 August 2004) AE Pamphlet 600-8-108, Famly Readness Support Assstant Gude (4 Aprl 2005) USARC Regulaton 608-1, Famly Readness Handbook (1 August 2000) CFSC DOCUMENTS AND PUBLICATIONS AUSA Resoluton #B-1-06a/B-1-06b: Famly Readness Support for Parents [Informaton Paper]. (2005, September 15). Alexandra, VA: CFSC-FP. Burcham, J. (2005, July 26). Vrtual Famly Readness Group [Informaton Paper]. Alexandra, VA: U. S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. Burcham, J. (2005, July). Vrtual Famly Readness Group (vFRG) [Brefing]. Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. Chrstansen, H. (2005). Operaton Ready Process Acton Team (PAT) meetng on 7-9 July 2004: Meetng documentaton. Annapols, MD: OCC Group. Gudelnes for Establshng a vFRG. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U. S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. InterLock Performance Inc. (Aprl 2005). Draft Course Map for Famly Readness Group Leader [onlne tranng course]. Alexandra, VA: Author. Johnson, D. (2005, 6 June). Mult-Component Army Famly Support Network. Informaton brefing conducted at the Mult-Component Famly Support Network (MCFSN) Tranng Conference, Mam, FL. Mancn, D. (2005). Supportng Famles n an Expedtonary Army: Overvew and Phlosophy. In MCFSN Tranng Manual for MCFSN Tranng Conference, Mam, FL. Mancn, D. (2005). Supportng Famles n an Expedtonary Army: MultComponent Famly Support Network. In MCFSN Tranng Manual for MCFSN Tranng Conference, Mam, FL. Mancn, D. (2006). Rear Detachment Commanders Handbook on Famly Readness [Operaton READY Handbook]. Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army Communty and Famly Support Center. MCFSN Baselne Servces Reference Gude [Spral flp book n Multcomponent Famly Support Network Purple Box]. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army and Communty and Famly Support Center.
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REFERENCES
REFERENCES
Tab
Operaton Mltary Kds [Card n Mult-component Famly Support Network Purple Box]. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army and Communty and Famly Support Center. Operaton Mltary Chld Care [Card n Mult-component Famly Support Network Purple Box]. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army and Communty and Famly Support Center. Post Traumatc Stress [Operaton READY brochure]. (n.d.) Alexandra, VA: U. S. Army Communty and Famly Support Center. Texas A & M Unversty. (2005). Draft Famly Readness for the Rear Detachment Handbook [Operaton READY Handbook]. College Staton, TX: Author. Texas A & M Unversty. (2005). Draft Key Caller Handbook [Operaton READY Handbook]. College Staton, TX: Author. Useful Famly Web stes [Bfold brochure n Mult-component Famly Support Network Purple Box]. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U. S. Army and Communty and Famly Support Center. U. S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. (2004, August). Publc Relatons and Current Events. In AFTB Level III (part 3.17). Alexandra, VA: Author. U.S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. (2005). Volunteer Program Admnstratve Fles. In The Army Volunteer Corps Gudebook (part 5.5). Alexandra, VA: Author. U.S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. (2005). Volunteer Fles. In The Army Volunteer Corps Gudebook (part 5.6). Alexandra, VA: Author. U.S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. (2005). Record Keepng. In The Army Volunteer Corps Gudebook (part 5.7). Alexandra, VA: Author. U.S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. (2005). Prvacy Protected Records. In The Army Volunteer Corps Gudebook (part 5.16). Alexandra, VA: Author. Youth Programs [Trfold brochure n Mult-Component Famly Support Network Purple Box]. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U. S. Army and Communty and Famly Support Center. MILITARY PUBLICATIONS Army War College (2004, Aprl). A Leaders Gude to Trauma n the Unt. (avalable from http://www.carlsle.army.ml/usawc/dclm/ mlfamhd.htm) Care Team Tranng (n.d.). Fort Hood, TX.
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Operaton Mltary Kds [Card n Mult-component Famly Support Network Purple Box]. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army and Communty and Famly Support Center. Operaton Mltary Chld Care [Card n Mult-component Famly Support Network Purple Box]. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army and Communty and Famly Support Center. Post Traumatc Stress [Operaton READY brochure]. (n.d.) Alexandra, VA: U. S. Army Communty and Famly Support Center. Texas A & M Unversty. (2005). Draft Famly Readness for the Rear Detachment Handbook [Operaton READY Handbook]. College Staton, TX: Author. Texas A & M Unversty. (2005). Draft Key Caller Handbook [Operaton READY Handbook]. College Staton, TX: Author. Useful Famly Web stes [Bfold brochure n Mult-component Famly Support Network Purple Box]. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U. S. Army and Communty and Famly Support Center. U. S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. (2004, August). Publc Relatons and Current Events. In AFTB Level III (part 3.17). Alexandra, VA: Author. U.S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. (2005). Volunteer Program Admnstratve Fles. In The Army Volunteer Corps Gudebook (part 5.5). Alexandra, VA: Author. U.S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. (2005). Volunteer Fles. In The Army Volunteer Corps Gudebook (part 5.6). Alexandra, VA: Author. U.S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. (2005). Record Keepng. In The Army Volunteer Corps Gudebook (part 5.7). Alexandra, VA: Author. U.S. Army and Communty Famly Support Center. (2005). Prvacy Protected Records. In The Army Volunteer Corps Gudebook (part 5.16). Alexandra, VA: Author. Youth Programs [Trfold brochure n Mult-Component Famly Support Network Purple Box]. (n.d.). Alexandra, VA: U. S. Army and Communty and Famly Support Center. MILITARY PUBLICATIONS Army War College (2004, Aprl). A Leaders Gude to Trauma n the Unt. (avalable from http://www.carlsle.army.ml/usawc/dclm/ mlfamhd.htm) Care Team Tranng (n.d.). Fort Hood, TX.
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REFERENCES
REFERENCES
DCS Drectve 01.05.06 v.20 Pre-Decsonal. Deployment Cycle Support (DCS) Drectve. [Memorandum] (also referred to as DCS Con Plan). Deployment Cycle Support (dagram avalable n DCS Con Plan on www. armyg1.army.ml/hr/DCS.asp) Fort Blss (n.d.). Famly Readness Group Procedures. Fort Blss, TX: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.). Casualty Notficaton. In FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.). Ft Drum Famly Readness Group Assstant Program. In FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.). Key Caller Notebook. [Operaton Ready handbook]. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.). Operaton READY. In FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.). Rear Detachment Responsbltes. In FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.) Vgnettes. In FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Rley (2005, June 30) Casualty Operatons. In CDR/1SGT Course [CD]. Fort Rley, KS: Author. Fort Rley (2005, June 30) Famly Readness Group Tps for Avodng Burnout [fact sheet]. In CDR/1SGT Course [CD]. Fort Rley, KS: Author. Fort Rley (2005, June 30) Meda Awareness [PowerPont presentaton]. In CDR/1SGT Course [CD]. Fort Rley, KS: Author. Harvey, F.J. (2005, March 23). 2006-2007 Army Strategc Context. Presentaton at World-Wde Publc Affars Symposum. Presentaton retreved September 16, 2005 from http://www.army.ml/ professonalvdeo/moves/strategc.html HQ 36th Infantry Dvson, Texas Army Natonal Guard, Rear Detachment Operatng Procedures (15 August 2005) Macdonald, J. (2005, November). Deployment Cycle Support (DCS) (dagram n brefing, slde 11 of 18). Alexandra, VA: Army G-1, HPRD. Mller, J. (2005, June 30) Combat Lfe Saver: Manage a Casualty wth Combat Stress Reacton (battle fatgue) [lesson 24]. In CDR/1SGT Course [CD]. Fort Rley, KS. Nchols, Ted (2004, 22 November). Respondng to Gref and Trauma. Presentaton gven at FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop, Fort Drum, NY. Post-Conflct/Moblzaton Personnel Operatons: Deployment Cycle Support [brefing]. (2004, September 3) Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army.
DCS Drectve 01.05.06 v.20 Pre-Decsonal. Deployment Cycle Support (DCS) Drectve. [Memorandum] (also referred to as DCS Con Plan). Deployment Cycle Support (dagram avalable n DCS Con Plan on www. armyg1.army.ml/hr/DCS.asp) Fort Blss (n.d.). Famly Readness Group Procedures. Fort Blss, TX: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.). Casualty Notficaton. In FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.). Ft Drum Famly Readness Group Assstant Program. In FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.). Key Caller Notebook. [Operaton Ready handbook]. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.). Operaton READY. In FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.). Rear Detachment Responsbltes. In FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Drum (n.d.) Vgnettes. In FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop. Fort Drum, NY: Author. Fort Rley (2005, June 30) Casualty Operatons. In CDR/1SGT Course [CD]. Fort Rley, KS: Author. Fort Rley (2005, June 30) Famly Readness Group Tps for Avodng Burnout [fact sheet]. In CDR/1SGT Course [CD]. Fort Rley, KS: Author. Fort Rley (2005, June 30) Meda Awareness [PowerPont presentaton]. In CDR/1SGT Course [CD]. Fort Rley, KS: Author. Harvey, F.J. (2005, March 23). 2006-2007 Army Strategc Context. Presentaton at World-Wde Publc Affars Symposum. Presentaton retreved September 16, 2005 from http://www.army.ml/ professonalvdeo/moves/strategc.html HQ 36th Infantry Dvson, Texas Army Natonal Guard, Rear Detachment Operatng Procedures (15 August 2005) Macdonald, J. (2005, November). Deployment Cycle Support (DCS) (dagram n brefing, slde 11 of 18). Alexandra, VA: Army G-1, HPRD. Mller, J. (2005, June 30) Combat Lfe Saver: Manage a Casualty wth Combat Stress Reacton (battle fatgue) [lesson 24]. In CDR/1SGT Course [CD]. Fort Rley, KS. Nchols, Ted (2004, 22 November). Respondng to Gref and Trauma. Presentaton gven at FRG/RDC Team Buldng Workshop, Fort Drum, NY. Post-Conflct/Moblzaton Personnel Operatons: Deployment Cycle Support [brefing]. (2004, September 3) Alexandra, VA: U.S. Army.
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REFERENCES
REFERENCES
Stowell, D. (2005, July 5) FRG and Famly Support Operatons [brefing]. In CDR/1SGT Course [CD]. Fort Rley, KS. Thrd Brgade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Dvson, Fort Bennng, Rear Detachment Standard Operatng Procedures (18 October 2004) III (US) Corps Artllery. (2005, November). Phantom Thunder Care Team Gude. Fort Sll, OK: Author. 10th Mountan Dvson, Fort Drum. (2005). Managng Crss: Quck Reference Gude for Battalon and Company Famly Readness Group Leaders. Fort, Drum, NY: Author.
Stowell, D. (2005, July 5) FRG and Famly Support Operatons [brefing]. In CDR/1SGT Course [CD]. Fort Rley, KS. Thrd Brgade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Dvson, Fort Bennng, Rear Detachment Standard Operatng Procedures (18 October 2004) III (US) Corps Artllery. (2005, November). Phantom Thunder Care Team Gude. Fort Sll, OK: Author. 10th Mountan Dvson, Fort Drum. (2005). Managng Crss: Quck Reference Gude for Battalon and Company Famly Readness Group Leaders. Fort, Drum, NY: Author.
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Web sites
MILITARY Army Casualty Web ste (also referred to as Casualty and Memoral Affars Center or CMAOC (www.hrc.army.ml/ste/actve/TAGD/CMAOC/cmaoc.htm) Army Famles Onlne (www.armyfamlesonlne.org) Army Wounded Warror Program (www.aw2.army.ml) Chld and Youth Servces (CYS) Programs (http://www.armymwr.com/portal/famly/chldandyouth/ programs.asp) The Way Ahead: Our Army at War Relevant and Ready (www.army.ml/thewayahead/) MyArmyLfeToo (www.myarmylfetoo.com) Vrtual FRG (www.armyfrg.org) COMMUNITY Natonal Mental Health Assocaton (www.nmha.org)
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Web sites
MILITARY Army Casualty Web ste (also referred to as Casualty and Memoral Affars Center or CMAOC (www.hrc.army.ml/ste/actve/TAGD/CMAOC/cmaoc.htm) Army Famles Onlne (www.armyfamlesonlne.org) Army Wounded Warror Program (www.aw2.army.ml) Chld and Youth Servces (CYS) Programs (http://www.armymwr.com/portal/famly/chldandyouth/ programs.asp) The Way Ahead: Our Army at War Relevant and Ready (www.army.ml/thewayahead/) MyArmyLfeToo (www.myarmylfetoo.com) Vrtual FRG (www.armyfrg.org) COMMUNITY Natonal Mental Health Assocaton (www.nmha.org)
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Getting prepared Staying prepared
Getting prepared Staying prepared

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FRG Leaders Handbook

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ARMY FRG Leaders Handbook

U.S. ARMY FRG Leaders Handbook

FRG Leaders Handbook

FRG Leaders Handbook

PART 2: What FRG Leaders Need To Know

PART 2: What FRG Leaders Need To Know

PART 3: Areas of FRG Leaders Responsibilities

PART 3: Areas of FRG Leaders Responsibilities

PART 4: Role and Activities of the FRG in Deployment Cycle

PART 4: Role and Activities of the FRG in Deployment Cycle

Combat Operatonal Stress Reacton: Battle Fatgue 75

Combat Operatonal Stress Reacton: Battle Fatgue 75

PART 5: Summary Highlights References

PART 5: Summary Highlights References

Documents Web Stes

PART 1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs

PART 1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs

Expeditionary Army and 21st Century Environment

Expeditionary Army and 21st Century Environment

1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs

1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs

Brigade Combat Teams

Brigade Combat Teams

1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs

1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs

Perception of Soldiers Family

Perception of Soldiers Family

1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs

1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs

1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs

1: CHANGES IMPACTING FRGs

PART 2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW 2

PART 2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW 2

2.1 FRG Program Mission

2.1 FRG Program Mission

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

2 2.2 Structure of FRG Operations

2 2.2 Structure of FRG Operations

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

2 2.3 Tips on Handling FRG Leadership Role

2 2.3 Tips on Handling FRG Leadership Role

H Become familiar with Army and unit policies, including FRG

H Become familiar with Army and unit policies, including FRG

H Use the resources available to families. Know how to identify

H Use the resources available to families. Know how to identify

H Be prepared to adapt to changing demands on the FRG to be

H Be prepared to adapt to changing demands on the FRG to be

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

Characteristics of Effective Leaders

Characteristics of Effective Leaders

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

2: WHAT FRG LEADERS NEED TO KNOW

PART 3: AREAS OF FRG LEADERS RESPONSIBILITY

PART 3: AREAS OF FRG LEADERS RESPONSIBILITY

3.1 Relationship With Unit Leadership

3.1 Relationship With Unit Leadership

Combat Operatonal Stress Reacton: Battle Fatgue 75

Combat Operatonal Stress Reacton: Battle Fatgue 75

Documents Web Stes