Deployment readiness also pertains to home, family

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jessica Andrews
  • 459th Aeromedical Staging Squadron
As members of the 459th Aeromedical Staging Squadron prepare for a deployment downrange this winter, one thing they need to take seriously is family readiness. 

This rings especially true for Reservists because they spend the majority of their time away from base, focusing on civilian jobs, and not thinking in a military mindset.
There are many things to consider while preparing to live overseas for several months and not all of them are obvious. Readiness is a key factor in a successful deployment and there are many components to it. 

Prior to an overseas deployment, Reservists should make contact with the family support office who will ensure that they have access to information and materials, from contacts for Military One Source (www.militaryonesource.com) to a Sesame Street video for children that explains how to handle their parents being gone. 

"Reservists don't get everything they need, and it's very challenging to do the outreach," said Master Sgt. Stephanie Spangler, 459th Mission Support Flight Family Support Office non-commisioned officer. "We let them know that they're eligible to go to any family support office of any branch of the military. Family support in active duty is beyond helpful and people can use them as a resource at any time." 

First lieutenant Katrina Wiggins, 459th Logistics Readiness Officer, is involved with the deployment planning process for the wing from start to finish. 

"Waiting until the last moment to complete necessary training is a common mistake Airmen make," Lieutenant Wiggins said. "Arrange for your personal affairs to be taken care of in your absence. Medical and training requirements are a necessary evil we have to address before any deployment. Members should read their reporting instructions. Be mentally prepared; attitude is everything." 

A grief-causing misconception for Reservists and their families is that deployment will be easier than it is. "It's a shock for some folks that have never been away from their families for an extended period of time," said Lt. Col. Jimmie Drummond, 459th ASTS chief of professional services. "There is the stress of being in a combat environment, and even the stress of messing up your sleep cycle. Family separation is a reality that takes people by surprise." 

Colonel Drummond also stressed the importance of being physically fit. "We had to carry heavy bags in grueling 125-degree heat. Walking in the sand and dirt all day is hard on the body. The better shape you're in, the better you'll deal with physical stress." 

Sergeant Spangler offers these tips to prepare: 

-- Choose a reliable person to handle bills back home; take important military phone numbers with you 
-- Find a place for your car, and someone who is able to start it periodically 
-- Plans for pets 
-- Set up advanced communication in case mail is slow; discuss responsibility shifts in the household. 

Talk to children's teachers and childcare providers about their behaviors. Families should understand that their loved ones need to get adjusted when they return. Take it slow and don't expect things will be the same right away. 

Relationships are also important. Marital issues spike during and after deployments. Make a commitment to be committed to your partner while you're deployed.
For more information, call the family support office at (240) 857-7048.