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1.A comparison of prolonged exposure therapy, pharmacotherapy, and their combination for PTSD: What works best and for whom; study protocol for a randomized trial
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Research summaries convey terminology used by the scientists who authored the original research article; some terminology may not align with the federal government's mandated language for certain constructs.
Guiding New Families Through Parenthood: The New Parent Support Program
Guiding New Families Through Parenthood: The New Parent Support Program Written by: Kelly Hallauer Edited by: Kate Abbate In military families, everyday stressors can be heightened by factors like deployment or relocation. Having young children or being pregnant can add to these stressors and uncertainty, especially for first time parents. The New Parent Support Program (NPSP) works to help parents balance these stressors and ensure a successful transition through the journey of parenthood (Military OneSource, 2025). This article shares the services the NPSP offers, the needs they address, and how the services can be accessed. Services Offered by the New Parent Support Program The primary goal of the NPSP is to enhance the lives of children and promote their well-being, while offering services and information to make sure families thrive in their role as new parents along with their military lifestyle (Military OneSource, 2025). To meet their goal, the NPSP offers a variety of services to military families to help them balance family and military life. This includes home visits by professionals, such as nurses and social workers, parenting classes, organizing playgroups, and referrals to other resources. Home visits offer an opportunity for parents to ask questions related to behavior management, sleep schedules, breastfeeding, and more, in the privacy of the family’s home. Parenting classes are an interactive way to focus on topics like child growth, managing the demands of parenting, positive discipline, and self-care. Organizing playgroups can help families build their support system within the military community. The NPSP also offers referrals to other resources through the military health care system to ensure that additional benefits are used as needed. These services are essential to the positive impact that the NPSP can have. Mental Health Needs of New Military Families The transition period of pregnancy and childhood can be stressful for new parents, but the NPSP works to counteract this by offering varying methods of support. Pretorius and colleagues (2024) learned that participating in group prenatal care was shown to have a positive effect on a mother’s mental health by giving mothers an opportunity to talk about their stress and feel comforted by peers. The NPSP works to implement this research by offering parenting classes and home visits to discuss these concerns. Pretorius and colleagues (2024) were also interested in learning more about the effects that social support has on infant-mother attachment. Through a literature review, they learned when women perceived they had more social support (e.g., from their partners, peers, family members), they tended to have better perinatal mental health (i.e., up to 6 months after birth) and infant-mother attachment (Pretorius et al., 2024). Social support is offered by the NPSP through the opportunity to organize playgroups and build a military community. The New Parent Support Program also works to support couples during their parenting journey. Roth and colleagues (2024) investigated the relationship between how couples cope (i.e., dyadic coping) and the mother’s pregnancy and transition to parenthood. Overall, dyadic coping was beneficial to both the individual (e.g., quality of life, wellbeing) and the relationship (e.g., marital adjustment). Parenting classes work to help military couples manage the demands of parenting and feel confident in their ability to parent as a cohesive unit. Accessing the New Parent Support Program A 2023 report indicated that there are over 360,000 active-duty military dependents aged five and younger (DoD, 2023). The NPSP is free for these active-duty service members, as well as reservists, and national guard members. The program is available for military families expecting a baby or those who have a child aged three or younger (Navy, Army, Air Force) or a child aged five or younger (Marine Corps). These families are encouraged to participate in the services offered by the NPSP. The New Parent Support Program strives to support military families through a hands-on approach to mental health and stress related issues to promote child well-being and development. Access to the NPSP is based around individual installations, since in-person home visits and resources are provided. Families can enroll in the program through their installations New Parent Support Program office, Family Advocacy Program, or Military and Family Support Center. Families can locate the office of these programs on individual installations from the Programs and Services database provided by Military OneSource. References Jones, M. N. (2024). Military spouses’ perceptions of family stress and resilience during multiple relocations [Ph.D., Walden University]. https://www.proquest.com/docview/3131065353/abstract/CD7B13A4056342FAPQ/1 Military OneSource. (2023). Chapter 5: Active-duty families, dependents. Military OneSource. Chapter 5: Dependents – 2023 Demographics Dashboards Military OneSource. (2025). New Parent Support Program. Military OneSource. Support Programs for New Military Parents | Military OneSource Pretorius, K., Sposato, M. F., & Trueblood-Miller, W. (2024). Perinatal mental health and active- duty military spouses: A scoping review. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 24(1), Article 557. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-024-06727-1 https://aub.ie/MilitaryREACH-Pretorius2024 Roth, M., Weitkamp, K., Landolt, S. A., & Bodenmann, G. (2024). Couples’ dyadic coping in the context of child-related stressors: A systematic review across three decades. Couple and Family Psychology: Research and Practice, 13(3), 202-223. https://doi.org/10.1037/cfp0000237 https://aub.ie/MilitaryREACH-RothM2022 Wu, S., Kaplan, J., Trautwein, M. L., Nelson, D. A., Duong, A., Woolaway-Bickel, K., …Kurina, L. M. (2024). Incidence and predictors of postpartum depression diagnoses among active-duty U.S. Army soldiers. Journal of Women’s Health, 33(12), 1625–1634. https://doi.org/10.1089/jwh.2023.1010 https://aub.ie/MilitaryREACH-Wu2024 RIA categories: Military Families Parents Resources Children Programming Research
Forging Bonds: The Importance of Unit Cohesion
Imagine an efficient, well-oiled machine standing against any challenge with unshakable unity - this is steadfast military unit cohesion in action. Unit cohesion is a type of social support defined by how strongly military members feel connected to and supported by their unit (Armistead-Jehle et al., 2011). The concept of unit cohesion can be broken down into two types, peer-to-peer and peer-to-leadership (i.e., horizontal and vertical cohesion, respectively; Siebold & Kelly, 1988). Though they work together to create unit cohesion, it’s important to understand that horizontal and vertical unit cohesion each impact Service members in different ways. As unit cohesion develops, it can have a great impact on Service members’ overall well-being. Specifically, higher levels of unit cohesion were related to the likelihood of Service members having a supportive network for emotional, informational, tangible, and mental health help-seeking needs (Barr et al., 2023). Essentially, close bonds within the unit help Service members build support systems to cope with various challenges of military life. Furthermore, Rugo and colleagues (2020) found that Soldiers who reported greater unit cohesion tended to indicate decreased likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms or suicidal ideation. In this article, we will explore the elements of both horizontal and vertical unit cohesion and examine their impact on the well-being of Service members. Horizontal Unit Cohesion Horizontal unit cohesion refers to peer-to-peer support within a military unit (i.e., excluding leadership and higher-ranking officials; Campbell-Sills et al., 2022; Siebold & Kelly, 1988). Horizontal unit cohesion has been identified as a protective factor for Service members exposed to combat, such that unit cohesion protects against the harmful effects of combat exposure on Service members’ PTSD symptoms, depressive symptoms, and suicidal thoughts (Campbell-Sills et al., 2022). These findings mean that having a close, supportive group of peers within a unit can reduce the impact of mental health challenges for Service members at home and abroad. Support networks for Service members highlight the impact of peer connections on mental health, emphasizing how camaraderie and mutual understanding within a unit can alleviate challenges faced by Service members both during and after deployment. The concept of horizontal unit cohesion becomes apparent when thinking about real-life scenarios. Take a look at the fictional Service member, Specialist Davis, who seems to be struggling while on deployment. Specialist Davis finds herself face-to-face with the stress and pressure of combat. Sitting alone, Davis feels reality weighing on her. Noticing Davis’s isolation, Specialist Bradley and a few unit members approach her, not to give orders, but to offer something far more impactful—genuine, peer-to-peer support. They start up a card game at Davis’s table and begin to share their own struggles and vulnerabilities, recounting battle stories and cracking jokes to help ease the emotional tension. This informal, yet earnest conversation provides Davis with a sense of understanding and comfort, lifting some of that heavy emotional burden. Vertical Unit Cohesion Vertical unit cohesion refers to peer-to-leadership support within a military unit, encompassing both leadership and subordinate roles (Campbell-Sills et al., 2022; Siebold & Kelly, 1988). Vertical unit cohesion is invaluable as it fosters a deep sense of trust and mutual respect, both essential for units performing complex and high-pressure assignments. Charbonneau & Wood (2018) found that perceptions of fairness within the unit and the quality of unit leaders serve as important contributors to Service members’ perceptions of unit cohesion. Similar to horizontal unit cohesion, vertical unit cohesion has been shown to buffer the harmful effects of combat exposure on psychological symptoms for Service members (Campbell-Sills, et al., 2022). Beyond mental health, leadership quality in vertical relationships (i.e. peer-to-leadership) is associated with Service members’ overall emotional attachment to the military, which may have consequences for their decision to stay in the military (Charbonneau & Wood, 2018). This concept can be vividly illustrated in the fictional scenario where Sergeant Martinez’s leadership significantly impacts her squad’s morale and cohesion. Sergeant Martinez, leading her squad through a grueling training exercise, notices Private Lee struggling and falls behind. Sensing his exhaustion, she pauses the exercise and gathers the squad for a break and begins to share her own challenging experiences. She encourages the squad to share their worst training exercise and how they survived. As they open up, Lee feels a renewed sense of connection. This informal exchange uplifts his spirits and strengthens his bond with the squad, helping him complete the exercise with renewed determination. Horizontal and vertical unit cohesion work together to create a supportive and resilient military environment. Horizontal cohesion, peer-to-peer support, helps Service members address the psychological challenges of combat and deployment. Vertical cohesion, peer-to-leadership support, builds essential trust and collaboration for success as well as emotional well-being. Together, these forms of cohesion create a strong foundation for military units ensuring that Service members are not only equipped to handle their responsibilities but also receive the support needed to navigate their challenges. References Armistead‐Jehle, P., Johnston, S. L., Wade, N. G., & Ecklund, C. J. (2011). Posttraumatic stress in U.S. marines: The role of unit cohesion and combat exposure. Journal of Counseling & Development, 89(1), 81–88. https://doi.org/10.1002/j.1556-6678.2011.tb00063.x Barr, N., Petry, L., Fulginiti, A., Arora, A., Cederbaum, J., Castro, C., & Rice, E. (2023). Who supports the troops? Social support domains and sources in active duty Army networks. Armed Forces & Society. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/0095327X231182907 Campbell-Sills, L., Flynn, P. J., Choi, K. W., Ng, T. H. H., Aliaga, P. A., Broshek, C., Jain, S., Kessler, R. C., Stein, M. B., & Bliese, P. D. (2022). Unit cohesion during deployment and post-deployment mental health: Is cohesion an individual- or unit-level buffer for combat-exposed soldiers? Psychological Medicine, 52(1), 121-131. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291720001786 Charbonneau, D., & Wood, V. M. (2018). Antecedents and outcomes of unit cohesion and affective commitment to the army. Military Psychology, 30(1), 43–53. https://doi.org/10.1080/08995605.2017.1420974 Rugo, K.F., Leifker, F. R., Drake-Brooks, M. M., Snell, M. B., Bryan, C. J., & Bryan, A. O. (2020). Unit cohesion and social support as protective factors against suicide risk and depression among National Guard service members. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 39(3), 214-228. https://doi.org/10.1521/jscp.2020.39.3.214 Siebold, G. L., & Kelly, D. R. (1988). Development of the Combat Platoon Cohesion Questionnaire (Report No. 817). Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences. https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/pdfs/ADA204917.pdf
More than a Flag: A Symbol of Hope, Bravery, Unity, and Mission
More than a Flag: A Symbol of Hope, Bravery, Unity, and Mission By: Haley Sherman and Kaylee Short-Smith Some of us may be familiar with the iconic photograph you see below, which depicts six United States Marines who raised the American Flag on top of Mount Suribachi, Japan, during the Battle of Iwo Jima on February 23, 1945 (Garner, 2021). (Image credit: Joe Rosenthal/Public Domain) If you, like me, Haley, were unaware of the exact history associated with the image above, you may be wondering why it is so iconic while simultaneously thinking how proud you are to be an American and how grateful you are for those six Marines, their service, and their sacrifice. Until recently, I had never thought much about why they were raising the American flag. I assumed it had something to do with an order received or that they saw it falling and wanted to raise it before it touched the ground. In reality, the history of this image holds much deeper meaning. According to Garner, the flag itself depicts the United States capturing this important location during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Before this location was captured by the United States military, the Japanese forces used this vantage point to employ direct artillery fire onto the American forces; this exact point aided in making the Battle of Iwo Jima one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific War (Garner, 2021). In knowing this, we began to think more deeply about the American Flag, what it means, the feelings it elicits, and the importance it holds not only for our military and country but also in different situations and for different individuals. You see, something as simple as a flag holds weight, and for the month of June—the month celebrating Flag Day—we decided at Military REACH that it is important to investigate, share the history of, and even share the personal meanings that these flags have for Service members and their families. The article discusses the flags representing the United States Armed Forces, which include the American flag and the flags of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard.Buckle up, friends, because today we are having fun with flags! American Flag The history of the American flag begins in 1777, and the original design is credited to Betsy Ross (US History, 2024). The flag originally had thirteen horizontal stripes alternating between red and white and thirteen white stars arranged in a circle on a blue field to represent the original thirteen colonies (Smithsonian, 2024). As America continued to expand their territory between 1791 to 1959, the American Flag evolved such that more stars were added to represent the additional states. As of today, there are fifty stars, and the thirteen stripes have remained untouched (Smithsonian, 2024). Not only do the stars and stripes have meaning, but so do the colors of the American flag: the red symbolizes valor and hardiness, white symbolizes purity and innocence, and blue symbolizes vigilance, perseverance, and justice (US History, 2024). As we examined what the American flag historically symbolizes, our team here at Military REACH reflected on what the flag means to them: “When I see the American flag, I am reminded of our country's foundational demand for representation and freedom from oppression, and our continued endeavor to ensure these rights for all Americans.” - Emily Hanson, MNM, MPA “When I see the flag, I think of all the young men and women who have sacrificed so much and continue to do so. I think about the duty we have as Americans to uphold the values this country was founded on, particularly those reflected in the first amendment - freedom of speech, the right to protest, and the right to petition our government for change. “ – Carly Vandenberg, PhD Army Flag The United States Army was established around 1775, however a flag was created in 1956 – 181 years later (Center for Military History United States Army, 2021). The Army flag is made of silk, centering the original “War Office” seal in blue. In the center of the seal, there is a Roman cuirass (i.e., body armor worn by Officers that was made of steel) which symbolizes strength and defense. An unsheathed sword sits in the center with a Phrygian cap, often called the ‘Cap of Liberty’ resting on the top. To the left is a musket, and on the right is an esponton (i.e., a half-pike used by subordinate Officers); these are behind the cuirass and represent the weapons of the Army (U.S. Army Center of Military History, 2000). On the right side of the seal is an unidentified flag with cords and tassels; the flagstaff is a spearhead. Below the flag is a cannon barrel that is slanted upward behind the cuirass. To the left of the cuirass on the bottom are three cannon balls and a cannon barrel. Above the cannon barrel is a drum with two drumsticks, a symbol of the Army’s intention to serve the nation and its’ people. An unknown flag partially covers the drumhead, showcasing another spearhead for the flagstaff. Finally, along the top of the seal is a rattlesnake holding a scroll with the motto, “This We’ll Defend.” The rattlesnake and scroll, used on other American colonial flags, signified the Army’s constant readiness to defend and preserve the United States (U.S. Army Center of Military History, 2000). Below the blue seal is a Scarlett scroll with white lettering that writes, “United States Army” (Center for Military History United States Army, 2021). In some instances, you may see various streamers connected to the Army flag. There can be up to 190 streamers, and these denote the various campaigns fought by the United States Army throughout its history (The Institute of Heraldry, n.d.). “For myself, it’s a reminder of why I serve and motivation to carry on what those before me have done, from the Revolutionary War to now.” – Sergeant Nicholas DiGradio, active duty Soldier “When I see the Army flag I naturally think ‘thank you for your service’ for whoever the owner of the flag is. I hope that they have good memories from being in the service and that they were and are currently being treated well. Veterans are not treated with the respect and dignity they deserve, and I always wish there was more I could do.” – Breanna DeBoer, Army National Guard and Reserves Veteran Marine Corps Flag The early versions of the Marine Corps flag are very different from the flag that flies today. During the 1830s-1840s, the flag was white in color, held a design of an anchor and eagle in its center, and included the words “To the shores of Triopli” across the top (Military.com, 2024). These words, colors, and symbols have changed over the years. Today the Marine Corps flag is scarlet in color and contains the Marine Corps emblem in the center of the flag (Marine Parents, 2023). The Marine Corps emblem consists of an eagle on the top with a streamer in its’ beak that bears the motto of the Marine Corps, “Semper Fidelis,” which means, “Always Faithful.” The eagle itself is a symbol of the United States, and the globe the eagle stands on represents the worldwide commitment of the Marine Corps. Finally, the anchor that goes through the globe represents the founding of the Marine Corps and its close ties to the United States Navy (The Official Website of Marines, n.d.). The scarlet and gold colors within the flag were ordered in 1925 to incorporate the official colors of the Marine Corps (Military.com, 2024). “I honestly feel a sense of connection and trust, sometimes with complete strangers, if I notice they are displaying a Marine Corps decal on their vehicle or a flag in front of their home. I do not seek them out, but I notice it, and in my mind I acknowledge, “There’s a Marine.” My husband is a former Marine, and I have two Marine sons, one active and one former. We proudly fly a Marine Corps flag in front of our home. Who knows? Maybe it deters bad guys from messing with our stuff. I also have five daughters. I know the Marine flag keeps their boyfriends in line.” – Lisa Dosev “The Marine flag represents pride in service and pride in the Corps! Seeing it displayed on a vehicle also leads me to seek the veteran out, if possible, to ask where he served, when, and in what units. Veterans want to connect with their peers and the need for Marines to reconnect is a bond that cannot be broken. If I see it in a store for sale, I am wondering if the store truly values veterans and do they understand the sacrifices Marines and their families give – days of boredom followed, at times, by intense combat that draws one’s memory of time shared in focused pain. Yet I am grateful they care to have it in their store.” – Lance Corporal Kaelan C. Gordon, active duty Navy Flag The official Navy flag was authorized by a Presidential Order in 1959 (Naval History and Heritage Command, 2018). In the center of the flag is a bald eagle, with wings spread wide, to represent bravery and courage. The foot of the eagle is on an anchor that is protecting a ship and symbolizes strength and power at sea. The positionality of the eagle, ship, anchor, and water symbolize unity and brotherhood amidst adversity (Alex, 2023). The imagery on this flag was drawn from the Department of the United States Navy seal such that all components are the same aside from the fact that there is no land depicted on the flag whereas there is land on the bottom right of the seal. The United States Navy flag is for display purposes and is carried on ceremonial occasions but does not fly on vessels (Military.com, 2013). “Whenever I see a Navy flag, I have a familial connection - a kinship, if you will, similar to when I see my family's coat of arms. Being born into a Navy family, marrying (x2) into a Navy family, and being the proud parent of an active-duty Navy Surface Warfare Officer, the Navy flag represents security, peace, and framily. Framily = friends that have become family through the bonds created because of shared experiences due to a military lifestyle.” – Sue Ehlers Burke “As a Navy Veteran the Navy flag represents a possible “Shipmate” or colleague. If I see it on a vehicle I am immediately drawn to ask where this Sailor served and when. It brings back a flood of memories of days at sea and time shared with fellow Sailors. If I see it in a store for sale, I am wondering if the store truly values veterans and do they understand the sacrifices Sailors and their families go through – months upon months of time away. However, I am grateful they care enough to have it there. When I see it flown properly by a government office or school, I have pride for what that flag represents, and I am grateful that they care to display it.” – Captain Terry C. Gordon, Retired U.S. Navy Chaplain Air Force Flag As do most of the branch’s flags, the United States Air Force flag have similar components as the American flag. This similarity includes the flag containing thirteen white stars to represent the thirteen original colonies (US Flag, 2009) where the three stars between eagles’ wings represent the Army, Navy, and Air Force (Air Force Historical Support Division, 2024). Unlike the American flag, the Air Force flag has an ultramarine blue background with gold accents and bears the coat of arms and the seal of the Air Force. The Air Force seal includes the American Bald Eagle which symbolizes the air striking power of the United States, and its head is turned to the right to symbolize facing the enemy and looking toward the future (Air Force Historical Support Division, 2024). The shield below the eagle has a thunderbolt, further representing striking power through the air. The pair of wings around the thunderbolt and the smaller lightning flashes complete the imagery of lightning being cast and thunder accompanying it; this part of the seal was inspired by the Roman god, Jupiter, who was the mythical god of the Heavens. Beneath the shield is a scroll with “United States Air Force” written in gold lettering (Air Force Historical Support Division, 2024). There are two versions of the Air Force flag; one is outlined in gold fringe and is to be hung indoors whereas the other is without gold fringe and is often used outdoors and seen in parades (US Flag, 2009). “One of my grandfathers was an officer in the Air Force and carried those personal and professional skills he learned into the civilian sector after a few years of service. My grandfather’s service gave my parents, and by extension me, a happy, fruitful, and safe childhood. I love the Air Force for the opportunities they’ve given my family.” – Captain Bruce James, active duty Airman “To be honest, the official Air Force flag is kind of boring. However, the newer Air Force logo brings me pride, and when I see it on someone's license plate, which occurs a lot in Texas, I automatically think I have a connection to them.” – Jeff Geringer, Air Force Veteran Space Force Flag The United States Space Force flag is the newest branch flag as of December 2019 (United States Space Force, n.d.). The dark blue and white colors symbolize the vastness of outer space. The middle, grey triangular image represents the Delta Wing of an aircraft (representing the early days in the Air Force space community) and/or space craft, representing innovation and change (United States Space Force, n.d.). The upward position of the Delta Wing represents the central role of the Space Force in defending the space domain. The blue and grey globe behind the Delta Wing represents the earthly home of the United States Space Force. The elliptical orbit (around the globe and Delta Wing) represents defense and protection from all adversaries and threats along with interagency cooperation and allied partnerships. The large white star, the Polaris, symbolizes a light of security and the constant presence and vigilance currently and in the future for space. The two clusters of smaller stars to the left and right of the globe represent the assets developed, maintained, and operated by the United States Space Force. The larger three stars represent the Organize, Train, and Equip functions of the Space Force. Finally, the Roman numerals MMXIX (2019) represent the year of the Space Force’s activation (United States Space Force, n.d.). “When I see the USSF flag out in public there are several thoughts that run through my head, the first is probably in line with most: “Wow it’s real.” I’ve been a career space operator since I’ve entered the military, so I never thought we would see a separate service dedicated to the domain. As such, I also get an immense amount of pride when I see it because I was one of the first, but I hope to lay a solid foundation for those who follow. The second thing that I think of when I see the flag, is the amount of work we have, as a service, to garner public faith and communicate the reason for our creation. On the surface, it seems pretty counterintuitive for a military branch to have to justify its existence, but the nature of our work is highly technical, highly classified, and highly misunderstood. I know that this is a top priority for USSF leaders.” – Anonymous, active duty Guardian Coast Guard Flag The origins of the Coast Guard flag are not quite as clear as some of our other branch’s flags. In 1917, the beginnings of a flag were created depicting a standard white flag with a blue eagle and a semi-circle of thirteen stars surrounding it (United States Coast Guard, 2013). Later the words, “United States Coast Guard,” were included along the top of the eagle in an arc, and “Semper Paratus,” meaning, “Always Ready,” was placed under the eagle. Then, in 1950, the semi-circle of stars was changed to be a full circle above the eagle (American Flags, 2024; United States Coast Guard, 2013). The eagle is also depicted holding an olive branch with thirteen leaves in one talon and thirteen arrows in the other to represent peace, war, and the thirteen original colonies (United States Coast Guard, 2013). The colors of the flag also hold meaning where red represents valor, white represents purity, and blue represents justice – similar to the American flag. “As a mother of a Coast Guard Academy graduate and a present Coast Guard pilot, the Coast Guard flag embodies a profound sense of pride, honor, and dedication for me. The flag brings deep gratitude for the sacrifices made by my child and his fellow “Coasties,” their unwavering dedication to protecting our country's shores, and their commitment to service- ensuring the safety of all who venture into the seas. ‘Semper Paratus – Always Ready.’” – Patrice Bramble Majewski “Particularly seeing the Coast Guard flag, as this was the branch my grandfather served in, I feel grateful for the opportunities the military provided for my family and curious of all the stories that have been shared and not shared by my grandparents.” – Lauren Scott Overall, we hope this article shed some light on the history, meaning, symbolism, and personal pride that individuals have for each of the flags that comprise the branches of the United States military. We thoroughly enjoyed reflecting on these flags and diving deeper into the meaning that each of the symbols and colors hold. It is our desire that for Flag Day this month, you take a moment to not only smile because we have a “Flag Day,” but also that you take it a little more seriously as flags can, and do, hold deep meaning for individuals, especially those who are affiliated with the military in one, or many, capacities. References Alex, Andrew. (2023). Explore the history and design of the US Navy seal logo. https://newsmilitary.com/explore-the-history-and-design-of-the-us-navy-seal-logo/ American Flags. (2024). The flag of the U.S. Coast Guard. https://www.americanflags.com/blog/post/flag-u-s-coast-guard Air Force Historical Support Division. (2024). United States Air Force seal.. https://www.afhistory.af.mil/FAQs/Fact-Sheets/Article/459019/united-states-air-force-seal/ Center for Military History United States Army. (2021). The origin of the U.S. Army flag. https://history.army.mil/faq/armyflag.htm Garner, T. (2021, February 23). Raising the flag on Iwo Jima: Here’s the story behind that iconic World War II photo. https://www.livescience.com/iwo-jima-flag-raising.html Marine Corps University. (n.d.) Marine Corps flag. https://www.usmcu.edu/Research/Marine-Corps-History-Division/Brief-Histories/History-of-the-Marine-Corps-Flag/ Marine Parents. (2023). The Marine Corps flag. https://marineparents.com/marinecorps/marine-flag.asp Military.com. (2011). Marine Corps history: The Marine Corps flag. https://www.military.com/marine-corps-birthday/marine-corps-history-the-marine-flag.html Military.com. (2013). Origins of the Navy flag. https://www.military.com/navy-birthday/origins-of-the-navy-flag.html Naval History and Heritage Command. (2018). Origins of the U.S. Navy flag. https://www.history.navy.mil/browse-by-topic/heritage/banners/origins-of-the-u-s-navy-flag.html Smithsonian Institution. (2001). Facts about the United States flag. https://www.si.edu/spotlight/flag-day/flag-facts U.S. Army Center of Military History. (2000). Department of the Army Emblem. https://history.army.mil/reference/Heritage/Emblem.htm The Institute of Heraldry. (n.d.). United States Army flag and streamers. https://tioh.army.mil/Catalog/Heraldry.aspx?HeraldryId=15639&CategoryId=9360&grp=2&menu=Uniformed%20Services&from=search The Official Website of Marines. (n.d.). What is the Marine Corps emblem? https://www.hrom.marines.mil/New-Employees/About-the-Marine-Corps/Emblem/ Military.com. (2013). History of Coast Guard flags. https://www.military.com/coast-guard-birthday/history-of-coast-guard-flags.html United States Space Force. (n.d.). United States Space Force symbols. https://www.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/About-Space-Force/USSF-Symbols/ US Flag. (2009). US Air Force flag. https://us-flag.net/military/air-force/ US History. (2024). Flag timeline. https://www.ushistory.org/betsy/flagfact.html
MILITARY FAMILY READINESS: AN OVERVIEW
HOME ABOUT MILITARY REACH LIBRARY UPDATES RESOURCES 12 APR 2024 MILITARY FAMILY READINESS: AN OVERVIEW By Emily Wright, Allison L. Tidwell, and Emily HansonEditors Kate Abbate You may have seen in a REACH publication, the news, or other forms of media the importance of military family readiness – but have you ever wondered what the phrase really means? In this article, we'll follow the fictional Stanley family as they navigate military life. Through these events we will explain what military family readiness is, how it influences family functioning, and what resources the military has created to promote military family readiness. What is military family readiness? The term readiness is commonly referred to throughout military culture in reference to Service members. The Department of Defense (DoD) defines readiness as "the ability of military forces to fight and meet the demands of assigned missions" (Joint Chiefs of Staff, 2017, p. 195). Blake Stanley is a 30-year-old active-duty Soldier preparing for deployment in one month – for Blake, readiness means that they are physically and mentally fit and ready to adapt during deployment. For their partner Sam and 4-year-old child Alex, though, readiness is much broader. Military family readiness differs from Service member readiness in that it is "the state of being prepared within the unique context of military service, to effectively navigate the challenges of daily living and military transitions" (Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, 2021, p. 54). Assessing military family readiness is not a matter of determining whether a family is "ready or not," but rather a matter of describing the family's capacity to handle the challenges they encounter. Therefore, military families need to have adequate means to overcome both military (e.g., relocation, deployment) and normative (e.g., parenting stress) stressors. Although Blake is physically and mentally prepared for deployment, they must navigate this upcoming transition with Sam and Alex as well. Currently, Blake and Sam share childcare tasks like daycare drop-offs and meal planning, as well as alternating planning date nights every week. When Blake is deployed for the next six months, Sam must now do all daycare drop-offs as well as grocery pick-ups and meal preparation. Because of the time difference, Blake will only be able to video call once a week at 10:00am, right in the middle of the workday. To adjust successfully as a family during deployment, Blake, Sam, and Alex will have to establish a new sense of "normal." Family scientists frequently gauge "readiness" by evaluating functioning across individual family members, family relationships, and life domains (Hawkins et al., 2018; see Figure 1). By capturing insight into these various aspects of family functioning, we can gain a holistic understanding of families' readiness to respond to stress and change. When determining what comprises family readiness, it is important to view the family as a group of interdependent members who are constantly influenced by each other. Thus, when one member of the family system or one area of the system is not at optimal functioning, the rest of the system may not function at its best. The stress of the upcoming deployment has led Blake to feel anxious, along with the rest of their family. Sam is worried about how to handle caring for Alex alone for the next 6 months. Alex has picked up on both of their parents' moods and has started crying more frequently due to the stress. To help ease everyone's stress, Sam plans a family picnic for the three of them to discuss communication expectations while Blake is gone and strategize how Alex can keep in touch with them. This comes as a relief to the family, as there is one less concern to worry about. Why does military family readiness matter? Military family readiness is a primary objective for the Department of Defense, as maintaining ready families ensures maintaining a ready defense force (Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, 2012). Spillover is a commonly cited concern for military family readiness; that is, issues at home may influence Service members' performance at work, while in other cases, issues at work may negatively affect family functioning (Escarda et al., 2022). For example, when couples encounter communication difficulties or marital conflict during deployment, the Service member may be distracted by their relationship issues and therefore less able to complete their military-related duties (Cater et al., 2015). Blake and Sam agree to prioritize video calls, and Sam coordinated with their boss to allow them to block one hour of their schedule as long as they can stay after an extra hour. They both look forward to the call every day, and it is a relief to have a scheduled and predictable time together to meet. Knowing when they can expect a call helps Blake focus on their deployment-related duties during the week. To ensure that Service members' capacity to perform their duties is not impeded by family-related issues, it is necessary for the Department of Defense to place an emphasis on military family readiness (Lester et al., 2011). Not only is family readiness important for ensuring that Service members are ready to perform their military duties, but it is also critical for the retention of Service members in the military. The decision made by many Service members to enter the military or to remain in the military is often determined by financial, social, and relational functioning. For instance, when families encounter work-family conflict due to family life stressors, like having multiple children or worrying about finances, they tend to report less satisfaction with military life and are therefore more likely to separate from the military (Woodall et al., 2023). After two weeks of longer workdays and having to ask the neighbor to pick up Alex from daycare, Sam starts to feel overwhelmed and asks Blake if they can reduce the number of 10am calls. Blake can't stop thinking about Sam's stress and starts to feel guilty about being gone for so long. This is their third deployment, and this happens every time. For the sake of their family, Blake wonders if it's just easier to leave the military. Indicators of Family Readiness Figure 1. Indicators of Family Readiness (Hawkins et al., 2018, p. ES-3) Promoting readiness through the Military Family Readiness System Family functioning and readiness is further supported through the Military Family Readiness System. The Department of Defense created the Military Family Readiness System to serve as a network of programs and services which promote military family well-being, readiness, resilience, and quality of life. Since the 10:00am call has been causing some tension, Sam and Blake decide to download the Love Every Day app to communicate and connect throughout the day. Sam decides to join their installation's Family Readiness Group to connect with other spouses and parents that have experienced the stress of deployment. When Blake is preparing to return home, the couple watches a webinar on family reunions to spark conversation about how to manage expectations. Although the deployment process was stressful for each family member, utilizing these resources helped the Stanley family cope with military and normative stressors, as well as help Blake feel confident with continuing their military career. RECENT STORIES Related Stories in References Escarda, M. G., Arroyo, Y. A., & Redondo, R. J. P. (2022). Work-family spillover in the Spanish armed forces. Community, Work & Family, 25(3), 374-388. https://doi.org/10.1080/13668803.2020.1771284 Hawkins, S. A., Condon, A., Hawkins, J. N., Liu, K., Ramirez, Y. M., Nihill, M. M., & Tolins, J. (2018). What we know about military family readiness: Evidence from 2006-2017. Research Facilitation Laboratory Army Analytics Group, and Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of the Army. https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/pdfs/AD1050341.pdf Joint Chiefs of Staff. (2017). DOD dictionary of military and associated terms. Department of Defense. https://www.tradoc.army.mil/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/AD1029823-DOD-Dictionary-of-Military-and-Associated-Terms-2017.pdf Lester, P., Leskin, G., Woodward, K., Saltzman, W., Nash, W., Mogil, C., Paley, B., & Beardslee, W. (2011). Wartime deployment and military children: Applying prevention science to enhance family resilience. In S. MacDermid Wadsworth & D. Riggs (Eds.), Risk and resilience in U.S. military families (pp. 149–173). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-7064-0_8 Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. (August 5, 2021). Military family readiness (DoD Instruction 1342.22). Department of Defense. https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/documents/DD/issuances/dodi/134222p.pdf Woodall, K. A., Esquivel, A. P., Powell, T. M., Riviere, L. A., Amoroso, P. J., & Stander, V. A. (2023). Influence of family factors on service members' decisions to leave the military. Family Relations, 72(3), 1138-1157. https://doi.org/10.1111/fare.12757 MOBILIZING RESEARCH, PROMOTING FAMILY READINESS. Our Partners Auburn University University of Georgia Department of Defense US Department of Agriculture 203 Spidle Hall, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama 36849 Military REACH Department of Human Development and Family Sciences (334) 844-3299 MilitaryREACH@auburn.edu Contact Us Website Feedback Stay Connected with Military REACH These materials were developed as a result of a partnership funded by the Department of Defense (DoD) between the DoD's Office of Military Community and Family Policy and the U.S. Department of Agriculture/National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA/NIFA) through a grant/cooperative agreement with Auburn University. USDA/NIFA Award No. 2021-48710-35671. Last Update: March 2024 2017 - 2024 All Right Reserved - Military REACHPrivacy Statement| Accessibility Plan This website uses cookies to improve the browsing experience of our users. Please review Auburn University’s Privacy Statement for more information. Accept & Close
RED, WHITE, AND MERRY: CELEBRATING HOLIDAYS IN THE MILITARY
HOME ABOUT MILITARY REACH LIBRARY UPDATES RESOURCES 12 DEC 2023 RED, WHITE, AND MERRY: CELEBRATING HOLIDAYS IN THE MILITARY By Melissa GarnesEditors Kate Abbate; Kaylee Short Cookies, candles, and joy - it's that wonderful time of the year! November and December bring many holidays celebrated by families worldwide – Diwali, Hanukkah, Krampus Night, and Kwanza are just a few around the world that are celebrated. Yet not every family holiday mirrors the magical moments often portrayed in Hollywood films. Some families grapple with separation, financial constraints, or time limitations. Our military families, with their distinctive responsibilities and lifestyle, share in these struggles. Thankfully, the Department of Defense (DOD) and global organizations have collaborated to create support systems, traditions, and services for service personnel, their families, and civilians to lessen the burden they may face during the holiday season. In this article, we'll explore how the DOD, national organizations, and local communities are extending a helping hand to families across the globe, and we will discuss ways your family can spread holiday cheer this season. NORAD Tracks Santa One month out of each year, the North American Aerospace Defense (NORAD) embarks on the magical journey of tracking the man in the red suit as he circles the globe. This whimsical tradition traces back nearly 65 years to an unexpected phone call. A little boy from Colorado Springs dialed the Constitutional Air Defense Command, hoping to speak to Santa after a department store advertisement misprinted the phone number. To his delight, Air Force Colonel Harry Shoup answered, and in the true spirit of Christmas, he and his team continued to field calls from eager children throughout the night. Beginning December 1st, you and your family can virtually visit the Noth Pole to learn more about Santa, play a new game every day in December, listen to Santa’s favorite music, and watch movies about Santa and NORAD! But make sure to come back on Christmas Eve to see when he’s flying his sleigh through a town near you! Operation Christmas Drop The holiday spirit didn't just touch the operators at the Constitutional Air Defense Command. In 1952, an aircrew aboard a B-29 Superfortress spotted Kapingamarangi islanders waving from below. Moved by the festive season, the crew decided to perform a parachute drop of supplies. This single act of generosity evolved into Operation Christmas Drop, the DOD's longest-running humanitarian initiative. For over a week, hundreds of volunteers, Service members, and communities unite to parachute packages to more than 50 remote islands in the Pacific. These aren't your typical wrapped gifts; they descend like snowflakes, filled with essentials like clothing, rice, school supplies, fishing gear, and, of course, toys! Operation Homefront Holiday Toy Drive The spirit of giving doesn't end with Operation Christmas Drop. The military community has its own secret Santa in the form of Operation Homefront's annual Holiday Toy Drive. This initiative brings joy to Veteran, wounded, and active-duty families through the gift of toys. Yet, it means more than just playthings; the Holiday Toy Drive symbolizes the community coming together to express gratitude to military personnel and their families for their unique sacrifices. In creating cherished memories and smiles, this present is priceless. If you’re feeling as moved this holiday season as we are, here are some ways you can get involved with military communities near and far to spread that good ole holiday cheer: Adopt-A-Family Holiday Support Soldier’s Angels provide aid, comfort, and resources to the military community. Through their Adopt-A-Family program, you can provide gifts and a grocery gift card for a military family in your community, just filter by zip code, city, or state. Send a Card Send a heartfelt card or handmade letter to a Veteran or Service member this season. Participate in the Military Card Challenge or send Hanukkah cards through The Jewish Soldiers Project (contact: jewishsoldiersproject@gmail.com) Volunteer to Feed Veterans Brought to you by the Soldier’s Angels organization, you can volunteer to serve our military-connected community by assisting with food distribution events. The goal of these events is to provide groceries to low-income active-duty Service members, Guardsmen, Reservists, Veterans, and their families. These events are sponsored by local businesses and organizations and are made possible with help from volunteers. This program is offered in the following cities: Atlanta, Georgia Charleston, South Carolina Denver, Colorado Detroit, Michigan Orlando, Florida San Antonio, Texas If you don’t see a city near you don’t worry, make a meal for a military member you know, so you can share in the joy of good food and good company. The collaborative efforts between the Department of Defense (DOD) and global organizations have provided invaluable support systems, established enduring traditions, and provided essential services that alleviate the burdens faced by civilians, Service members, and their families during the holiday season. These initiatives and celebrations have woven a framework of compassion, resilience, and community, fostering unity among diverse families connected by the common thread of service to their nations. These endeavors not only recognize the sacrifices made by military personnel but also extend their embrace to the families and communities that stand with them. From our home at Military REACH to yours, we hope you have a happy holiday season and a prosperous New Year! RECENT STORIES Related Stories in MOBILIZING RESEARCH, PROMOTING FAMILY READINESS. Our Partners Auburn University University of Georgia Department of Defense US Department of Agriculture 203 Spidle Hall, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama 36849 Military REACH Department of Human Development and Family Sciences (334) 844-3299 MilitaryREACH@auburn.edu Contact Us Website Feedback Stay Connected with Military REACH These materials were developed as a result of a partnership funded by the Department of Defense (DoD) between the DoD's Office of Military Community and Family Policy and the U.S. Department of Agriculture/National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA/NIFA) through a grant/cooperative agreement with Auburn University. USDA/NIFA Award No. 2021-48710-35671. Last Update: 02/23/2022 2017 - 2022 All Right Reserved - Military REACHPrivacy Statement| Accessibility Plan
Military Chaplains: Their Vital Role in Our Military
(334) 844-3299 MilitaryREACH@auburn.edu HOME ABOUT MILITARY REACH LIBRARY UPDATES RESOURCES SEARCH 13 NOV 2023 MILITARY CHAPLAINS: THEIR VITAL ROLE IN OUR MILITARY By Bri GordonEditors Kate Abbate; Erin Cooper The Continental Congress established the first Chaplain Corps in July 1775 by providing one chaplain for every unit in the Continental Army (U.S. Army Chaplain Corps, 2015). Because of this, chaplains can be found wherever Service members are, and they have served with regiments in every American war (Otis, 2009). Chaplains are dedicated spiritual leaders of all religious denominations and provide spiritual support to Service members regardless of their member's religious affiliation. Their responsibilities include providing spiritual guidance, conducting public worship services, leading religious study sessions, and ministering to the wounded and/or dying (Otis, 2009). To gain more insight into the role of chaplains, I connected with Captain (Capt.) Terry Gordon, who conveniently is also my father! A retired Navy chaplain, Capt. Gordon has 30+ years of experience serving Service members and their families. With many tours and deployments both overseas and domestic, he has seen how a chaplain’s roles and responsibilities have evolved over time, especially with the increased awareness of mental health. Although I accompanied him for only about half of his military career, I can attest to how his work impacted the Service members around us and how he grew within his role as a religious leader and counselor. With Capt. Gordon’s help, I gained even more insight into the roles and responsibilities of military chaplains, who has access to their services (and how to seek their services), how chaplains interact with others in the workplace, and some common myths and assumptions. Roles and Responsibilities A chaplain’s responsibilities typically extend beyond roles performed in similar occupations, such as mental health professionals. Chaplains are often used as a source for counseling, and it is typical for Service members with high levels of combat exposure and mental health concerns to seek support from chaplains (Morgan et al., 2016). While the roles of both chaplain’s and mental health professionals are very similar and often overlap, Capt. Gordon highlighted the differences: “Chaplains bring one unique component in, which is purely a faith-based component. Many chaplains have higher education in counseling or social work, however, they’re not there to solely be a counselor but to be an ordained religious leader. Chaplains can be trained in certain counseling techniques, but faith and spirituality counseling is the main focus.” Accessing Chaplain Services Outside of who are military chaplains, how to seek out their services may be the second most commonly asked question. For Service members it’s a bit easier, considering their close proximity and initial contact with a chaplain during their basic training. Capt. Gordon explains: “For service members, it’s easy because there are chaplains in every phase of training upon entering the service. They meet their first chaplain at basic training and will have continued contact with them throughout that training. It is the chaplain's duty to explain their role as their chaplain, and how they and their families can contact them. Outside of training, a Service member and their family should always have ready access to a chaplain throughout their career.” For families, Capt. Gordon explained a process called “deckplate ministry.” This is a Navy term (also known as ‘walking the flight line’ for the Air Force, or ‘walking ministry’ in general) that refers to chaplains walking around their duty-station so Service members and their families can visually see them, and it provides an opportunity to talk. Capt. Gordon also emphasized the importance of chaplains participating in family programs. Chaplains can continue walking ministry at these events and informally meet with them in a relaxed atmosphere and provide them with resources as needed. Collaborative Model Approach to Treatment A collaborative model (i.e., the process of referring someone in need to other mental health professionals and working together as professionals to provide care) is a practice that many chaplains and military mental health professionals incorporate. Because chaplains serve alongside Service members and are in close proximity with them, they are naturally the first in line for providing support for mental health concerns (Howard & Cox, 2008). This may be because chaplains can build a trusting relationship with their unit members more easily. Chaplains provide initial services and refer Service members to trained mental health professionals when needed (Besterman-Dahan et al., 2012). Successful collaborative models include close collaboration between chaplains and mental health professionals from initial patient contact through termination of services (Howard & Cox, 2008). Capt. Gordon emphasized the importance of this model, saying: “Chaplains are there to compliment the counselor. Many chaplains will try to foster a solid relationship with the unit’s counselor [and] use it as a complimentary resource. If there’s something out of the scope of a chaplain’s abilities or vice versa, both sides should be able to use each other. A chaplain can pray for anybody, but a chaplain's counseling may not be enough compared to a professional counselor's technique.” Common Myths and Assumptions As is the case with many services, there are some common assumptions about military chaplains. Capt. Gordon has busted common myths throughout his career, the most common being that chaplain services are only available to a Service member: “That’s not true, we’re available to anyone who carries a military ID card. Could be a spouse, a dependent, a contractor; as long as you have a Department of Defense ID card, you will have access to our services.” Additionally, one barrier to accessing mental health services seen within the military is fear that mental health providers will disclose private client information, and that a Service member’s ability to progress in their career may be obstructed (Evans, 2021). Ethical standards involving confidentiality within mental health disciplines ensure the protection of clients’ privacy by not disclosing their personal information or therapy contents to others (American Psychological Association, 2017). However, Service member mental health care information may be revealed to commanders if one or more of the following criteria is met (Evans, 2021): 1. “Threats to personal or public safety (harm to self/others), harm to mission, or deployment readiness 2. Acute medical conditions that interfere with duty, including inpatient psychiatric hospitalization and substance abuse treatment 3. Judicial, law enforcement, and administrative proceedings; special sensitive personnel; or specialized government functions 4. Personnel accountability” Chaplains on the other hand maintain “absolute confidentiality.” Capt. Gordon explained absolute confidentiality, saying: “Our confidentiality by law is absolute. This is because of the sacramental right of some faith traditions that confessions made in religious repentance are kept in total confidence with the chaplain. It’s an official policy and military law. There should always be someone a Service member can talk to without fear of repercussion. It is a powerful tool and ensures people are getting the help they need, and fixing problems before they become huge problems.” It is important to note that chaplains are equipped to maintain absolute confidentiality while still ensuring the safety of all the parties involved. For example, if a Service member plans to harm themselves, their chaplain can encourage them to seek services to improve their wellbeing. Additionally, their chaplain can continue to meet with the Service member until they are receptive to meeting with a mental health professional. A Chaplain's Presence and Impact Despite these negative assumptions about meeting with chaplains, there are many positive assumptions people have about the Chaplain Corps. While it can be easy to find the flaws within a system, Capt. Gordon still had a lot of good to say about his Corps: “A good assumption is ‘the chaplain is always there.’ There should always be a chaplain in every forward deployed unit, no matter what size. A good chaplain will boost morale and aid in lowering mental health problems. People assume we’re just spiritual folks, we’re just there to pray and we provide nothing else for the unit. Obviously, that’s not true. When a chaplain walks into a room, it brings a spiritual consciousness and a sense of the presence of the divine. It gets people thinking, and back to a reality that’s more than just a ‘warrior ethos’. We bring a sense of humanity back into the soldier. We’re there to keep the balance so they don’t lose sight of who they are as people. It’s a very good thing.” Chaplains continue to play a vital role in our military today. Whether performing religious services, mentoring Service members, or being advocates for Service members and their families’ wellbeing, it is safe to assume that chaplains are dedicated to improving our Service member and their families lives, and therefore the military, every day. To learn more about chaplain services or how to find a chaplain at your installation, check out Military OneSource guide, “The unit chaplain: Roles and responsibilities”. RECENT STORIES Related Stories in References American Psychological Association. (2017). Ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/ethics/code Besterman-Dahan, K., Gibbons, S. W., Barnett, S. D., & Hickling, E. J. (2012). The role of military chaplains in mental health care of the deployed service member. Military Medicine, 177(9), 1028–1033. https://doi.org/10.7205/MILMED-D-12-00071 Evans, C. (2021). Confidentiality, chaplains, and the military. Military Health System. https://health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Centers-of-Excellence/Psychological-Health-Center-of-Excellence/Clinicians-Corner-Blog/Confidentiality-Chaplains-and-the-Military Howard, M. D., & Cox, R. P. (2008, April). Collaborative intervention: A model for coordinated treatment of mental health issues within a ground combat unit. Military Medicine, 173(4), 339–348. https://doi.org/10.7205/MILMED.173.4.339 Morgan, J. K., Hourani, L., Lane, M. E., & Tueller, S. (2016). Help-seeking behaviors among active-duty military personnel: Utilization of chaplains and other mental health service providers. Journal of Health Care Chaplaincy, 22(3), 102–117. https://doi.org/10.1080/08854726.2016.1171598 Otis, P. (2009). An overview of the U.S. military chaplaincy: A ministry of presence and practice. The Review of Faith & International Affairs, 7(4), 3–15. https://doi.org/10.1080/15570274.2009.9523410 U.S. Army Chaplain Corps. (2015, January 28). The Army Historical Foundation. https://armyhistory.org/u-s-army-chaplain-corps/ MOBILIZING RESEARCH, PROMOTING FAMILY READINESS. Our Partners Auburn University University of Georgia Department of Defense US Department of Agriculture 203 Spidle Hall, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama 36849 Military REACH Department of Human Development and Family Sciences (334) 844-3299 MilitaryREACH@auburn.edu Contact Us Website Feedback Stay Connected with Military REACH These materials were developed as a result of a partnership funded by the Department of Defense (DoD) between the DoD's Office of Military Community and Family Policy and the U.S. Department of Agriculture/National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA/NIFA) through a grant/cooperative agreement with Auburn University. USDA/NIFA Award No. 2021-48710-35671. Last Update: 02/23/2022 2017 - 2022 All Right Reserved - Military REACHPrivacy Statement| Accessibility Plan
PURPLE HEART DAY
August 7th is Purple Heart Day – a day to honor the ~1.8 million Purple Heart recipients (United States Mint, 2022). The Purple Heart has origins as the oldest medal in the U.S. military and is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who have been injured or killed due to an enemy attack/action (Veteran.com, 2022). Additionally, it is special because it is an entitlement, meaning people receive it when they meet the basic criteria versus others requiring them to be nominated by their superior officer (Miller, 2010). This article will review a brief history of the Purple Heart and discuss ways in which we can honor the recipients. \n\n #### History of the Purple Heart \n\n According to The National WWII Museum and the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, the Purple Heart began as the Badge of Military Merit. It was established in 1782 because George Washington wanted to “cherish virtuous ambitions in his [enlisted] soldiers.” Receiving this metal was considered a high honor throughout the American Revolution, and only three individuals were documented to have received it. However, following the war, it wasn’t spoken about again until 1932, when it was renamed the Purple Heart. This rebranding was likely intended to honor the original design of the Badge of Military Merit which was a “figure of a heart in purple cloth or silk edged with narrow lace or binding” (Virginia War Memorial Foundation, n.d.). \n\n #### How Can We Honor Purple Heart Recipients? \n\n Purple Heart Day, August 7th, is a time when our nation pauses to recognize the service and sacrifice of those who have received a Purple Heart. On this day, you may see various military organizations hold remembrance for their fallen heroes and give special thanks to the recipients. So, what can you do to honor these Service members and Veterans? You can… \n* Offer a moment of silence and gratitude for those who died of injuries obtained while protecting our country. \n* Create a safe space for recipients to discuss their experiences and needs. This will allow them to recognize the people in their life who support and care about their wellbeing. \n* Donate your time or contribute to military foundations you resonate with, such as the Purple Heart [Foundation](https://purpleheartfoundation.org/). \n\n Thank you to those who have served and a special thank you this month to those who received a Purple Heart. \n\n##### References \n* Hobfoll S. E., & Lilly R. S. (1993). Resource conservation as a strategy for community psychology. Journal of Community Psychology, 21, 128–148. [https://doi.org/10.1002/1520-6629(199304)21:2<128::AID-JCOP2290210206>3.0.CO;2-5](https://doi.org/10.1002/1520-6629(199304)21:2<128::AID-JCOP2290210206>3.0.CO;2-5 )\n* Institute of Medicine of The National Academies. (2013). Returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan: Assessment of readjustment needs of veterans, service members, and their families. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. [https://doi.org/10.17226/13499](https://doi.org/10.17226/13499 )\n* Segal, M. W., & Harris, J. J. (1993). What we know about army families. U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences. [https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/citations/ADA271989](https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/citations/ADA271989)\n* Trail, T. E., Meadows, S. O., Miles, J. N., & Karney, B. R. (2017). Patterns of vulnerabilities and resources in U.S. military families. Journal of Family Issues, 38 (15), 2128–2149. [https://doi.org/10.1177/0192513X15592660](https://doi.org/10.1177/0192513X15592660)\n* U.S. Government Accountability Office. (2022). Special education: DOD programs and services for military-dependent students with disabilities. [https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-22-105015.pdf](https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-22-105015.pdf)
Smooth Moves: Relocating Overseas
Smooth Moves: Relocating Overseas Emily Wright You just received an overseas PCS order to Belgium. After jumping for joy (or simply being terrified), now what? There are challenges associated with any relocation order, but overseas relocations may seem particularly daunting due to unique preparations (e.g., are your passports up-to-date, is English the primary language of your destination?). This article will share some findings from the current literature surrounding military overseas relocations, discuss common challenges and resilience factors among families, and provide strategies to make future overseas relocations more manageable for families. Overseas: Overjoyed or Overstressed? There is a level of stress present when facing any relocation — military-related or not — and research suggests that this is particularly heightened when it comes to a relocation outside of the continental United States (OCONUS). According to a study by Elliot (2020), military spouses reported feeling stress while relocating overseas from feeling out of control of their situation and from fearing the unknown. Additionally, research shows that military families experience unique stressors, such as a shift in family function due to being posted internationally, changes in wellbeing and support, and sometimes feelings of grief and loss (Blakely et al., 2012). Relocating may be frustrating because of the additional requirements in place to ensure the move can happen (e.g., families need to obtain visas, passports, and additional clearances), which may contribute to a family’s perceived quality of life and perception of their relocation experience (Elliot, 2020). Smooth(er) Moves Even though an overseas deployment comes with challenges, military families are resilient and capable of overcoming difficult situations. Ferreira and Ferreira (2021) identified several resilience factors seen in military families that can buffer the stressors of future overseas relocations: Spirituality — Practices, such as attending religious services, meditation, and prayer, may help families to build resilience and transition smoothly to an overseas placement. Connecting with a spiritual group after relocation may help families build a sense of community and connection. Support networks — When moving to a new place, overseas or the next state over, quickly developing and maintaining your support network is important. Getting involved with your new, local military community can assist in your adjustment to the new environment. Look into resources, like online support groups or community organizations, to begin building your support system prior to your move. Resourcefulness — Being resourceful when transitioning to a new place can help family members adjust quicker to a new community. Before you move, learn about the different organizations and programs available in your community — be it military specific, like military based relocation assistance programs, or community specific, like asking around to find the best dog-friendly restaurants. Flexibility — Practicing flexibility and adaptability when preparing to move overseas may help you to remain balanced and feel better prepared to relocate. Have meaningful conversations with your family members about ways you can practice flexibility and adaptability throughout your moving process. A couple of examples are being able to fluidly shift responsibilities as your priorities change and maintaining a positive attitude throughout the move. Core Family Relationships — When family members feel more connected to one another, the whole family unit tends to have more cohesion and resilience. These are important attributes for families who are preparing to move overseas because when your family has a strong sense of unity, the moving process may be easier and cause less stress due to the presence of strong and healthy relationships. Prior Preparation — Taking time to plan and prepare for an overseas relocation is crucial for families. Planning and preparing for your move by learning about the local culture and community as well as understanding the relocation process have both been proven to be a resilience factor in military families. In addition to the resilience factors that can assist military families when relocating, there are many other tangible ways military families can prepare for the move. For example, families can familiarize themselves with their new culture prior to the move and spend time learning basic words and phrases of the language (e.g., “where is the bathroom?”, “I need help.”). Additionally, making use of helping professionals, such as counselors or relocation specialists, can be beneficial as they are aware of the overall moving process and resources available. Through resilience, preparation, and perseverance, military families can be successful when relocating overseas. By using the resources and strategies provided in this article and taking advantage of your local military community, we hope your next overseas relocation is a smooth and successful transition. References Allen, K. R., & Henderson, A. C. (2017). Family theories: Foundations and applications. John Wiley & Sons. Azari, J., Dandeker, C., & Greenberg, N. (2010). Cultural stress: How interactions with and among foreign populations affect military personnel. Armed Forces & Society, 36(4), 585–603. https://doi.org/10.1177/0095327X09358648 Blakely, G., Hennessy, C., Chung, M. C., & Skirton, H. (2012). A systematic review of the impact of foreign postings on accompanying spouses of military personnel. Nursing & Health Sciences, 14(1), 121–132. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1442-2018.2011.00659.x Elliott, B. (2020). US military spouses’ experiences transitioning abroad: A narrative analysis. Nursing Forum, 55(4), 703–710. https://doi.org/10.1111/nuf.12487 Ferreira, C., & Ferreira, J. (2021). Overseas relocation and military family resilience factors. International Journal of Arts and Humanities, 7(2), 1-4. http://ijah.cgrd.org/images/Vol7No2/1.pdf Focus Terms: Military Families Research
YOU'RE VALUED, TOO: OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGES OF MILITARY SPOUSAL EMPLOYMENT
One of the ongoing obstacles that military spouses face is employment — or the lack thereof. According to the Office of People Analytics’ (OPA) Active Duty Spouse Survey, 21% of active-duty spouses were unemployed in 2021, which is almost 6 times higher than the U.S. national average (3.4%; U.S. Department of Labor, 2023). Many military-related stressors (e.g., frequent relocations, spousal deployments) can contribute to high unemployment rates and underemployment (i.e., overqualified or working less than desired) for military spouses. Research shows that women who are married to an active-duty Service member and either do not have a college degree or have experienced relocation in the past year are more likely to be unemployed (Lara-Cinisomo et al., 2020). This piece will tackle biases and barriers associated with military spousal employment, discuss how employment can boost personal well-being, describe the skills and assets that spouses can bring to the workplace, and emphasize just how valuable military spouses can be as employees. Biases and Barriers to Military Spousal Employment There is a running list of obstacles preventing adequate employment for military spouses. For example, Godier-McBard and colleagues (2020) found that many civilian employers in the U.K. consider the military an inflexible organization and believe that hiring a military spouse may create challenges for their organization. Frequent relocations are an additional barrier that could disrupt the natural progression of a spouse’s career, especially if a job is not easily transferable (Lim & Schulker, 2010). In addition, a 2006 study found that a majority of military wives in the labor force tended to be underemployed (49%), and only 11% were adequately employed (Lim & Schulker, 2010). Of those 49%, over one-third were underemployed due to an educational mismatch (i.e., overqualification) (Lim & Schulker, 2010). These unfair barriers may be explained by the lack of standardization across states, especially regarding licensure. To give just one example, 35% of military spouses work in a field requiring licensure (e.g., nursing, dental hygiene; U.S. Department of the Treasury and U.S. Department of Defense, 2012). Specifically related to the nursing field, researchers found even after receiving access to information on topics such as state-specific licensing requirements and license maintenance, the lack of unified information resulted in confusion and frustration (Brannock & Bradford, 2021). License portability is another barrier for military spouses regarding continued employment. Because many practicing licenses (e.g., medical, mental health, attorney/lawyer, education) are issued only for the state in which one resides, military spouses are at a disadvantage due to frequent military-related relocations. Transferring a license to a new state or country takes time and effort: requirements may include several months’ time, multiple forms of documentation, and application fees, which can add up quickly if you move often (Tidwell, 2020). However, Congress has taken steps to address this issue by introducing the Comforting Our Military Families through On-base or Remote Treatment Act ( COMFORT Act). If passed, the COMFORT Act will allow for the coordination of programs within the Department of Defense such that those who maintain a non-medical license (e.g., counselors, psychologists, mental health professionals) can provide service anywhere in the U.S. (Goodale, 2021). The Act would increase employment opportunities for spouses while simultaneously meeting the need for more military mental health service providers. While it only applies to those who maintain a non-medical license, the COMFORT Act could be an excellent reference point to increase the portability of other types of licensure for military spouses. Benefits of Employment The importance of employment opportunities for military spouses cannot be understated. Employment seems to buffer military spouses against some military-related stressors, like deployment or relocation, and provide a valuable sense of self and contribution (Huffman et al., 2021). According to Kremer and colleagues (2021), employed individuals can experience: Greater life satisfaction and a sense of fulfillment Daily structure Frequent and consistent social interactions that can help build a sense of community The emotional satisfaction that comes with meaningful contributions to society Skills Military Spouses Bring to the Workforce Julie Anne, a now-retired military spouse, explained that she gained the “ability to adapt to almost any situation and find normalcy in chaotic/unfamiliar situations or places,” during her time as a military spouse (White, 2021). Military spouses are adaptable, finding ways to thrive in a variety of occupational settings (Bradbard et al., 2016). Military spouses have a plethora of skills that can be useful in any position, such as being team oriented, having the ability to find normalcy amidst the chaos, and successfully being able to engage across cultures. Most military spouses experience separation from friends and family, frequent relocations, and spousal deployments – but common experiences like these teach them to adapt quickly to whatever gets thrown their way. Military spouses are also team-oriented, a trait that largely matches the way military infrastructure runs: through camaraderie and mutual support. The nature of military life, with its frequent relocations, means that spouses and their families are exposed to a variety of different cultures. They have the potential to be among some of the most socially aware people you will ever meet (Bradbard et al., 2016), and their experiences in cross-cultural engagement are an asset in the workplace. Employment Resources for Military Spouses Although the biases of and barriers to military spousal employment are frequently recognized, leaders and policy makers are actively working to bridge the gap. Below are a few resources to help alleviate them: Military Spouse Education & Career Opportunities (MySECO) is a Department of Defense (DoD)-sponsored resource that provides educational and career guidance to military spouses, as well as tools and resources related to career exploration, education, training, licensing, and readiness. The Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) connects military spouses to employers dedicated to recruiting, hiring, and maintaining military spouse employees. The U.S. Department of Labor offers a comprehensive list of resources on licensing, employment, and available training for military spouses on their journey to find and maintain employment. My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) offers financial assistance to eligible military spouses seeking to pursue or maintain a license, certification, or associate degree. The Military Spouse Career Connection at Walmart seeks to hire military spouses at Walmart and Sam’s Club. They also provide career counselors for the best job fit within their system. The Military Spouse and Family Educational Assistance Programs provide information on scholarships for military spouses seeking education. The programs offer Veterans Affairs scholarships, state benefits, private scholarships, and more. The Society of Military Spouses in STEM (SMSS) is a member-run organization focused on helping military spouses find careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
A SALUTE TO OUR WOMEN SERVICE MEMBERS FOR WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
Women have supported the U.S. Military since our country was founded with the Revolutionary War (1775–1783), although they weren't formally recognized as Service members until 1948. Over time, women’s roles to serve our country have evolved over time, but their capability has never wavered. In this piece, we will explore the roles of women throughout our military history related to varying policies, their contributions to our country, and discuss recent research findings about women Service members. During the Revolutionary War, women found unique ways to aid in the war effort, such as mending clothing, tending to wounds, foraging for food, cooking, cleaning both laundry and cannons, and traveling alongside different militias. In addition, some women disguised themselves as men to fight on the front lines (DeSimone, 2022). Similarly, while women were not allowed to enlist in the Civil War (1861-1865), approximately 1,000 women across the Union and Confederate armies fought while disguised as men (DeSimone, 2022). One of these revolutionary women, Margaret Corbin, was the first woman to receive a military pension (Michals, 2015). In fact, throughout the Civil War, a further 20,000 women served in other ways (e.g., growing crops, sewing, laundry, collecting donations, running fundraising campaigns). But their greatest contribution was serving as nurses for the Union Army. One such volunteer, Clara Barton, went on to found the Red Cross, an influential relief organization to this day (American Red Cross, 2023). During the 20th century, women experienced a shift in the recognition of and allowance for their military service. 1901 saw the start of the U.S. Army Nurse Corps, with a total employment of 403 nurses; by 1918, that number had grown to 3,000. At the same time, a shortage of men available for clerical “yeoman” duties, such as operating telephones and radios and acting as translators, led the Navy to recruit women for these jobs. The first “yeomanettes” served the Navy between 1917 and 1918 (during WWI [1914–1918]; DeSimone, 2022). By WWII (1939–1945), the military enlisted women across all branches. The Army had the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps and the Army’s Women Airforce Service Pilots. The Navy had Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service. The Marine Corps had the Marine Corps Women’s Reserve. And the Coast Guard’s Women’s Reserve was called Semper Paratus (“Always Ready”). This was a huge victory for women during this time. Throughout WWII, some 350,000 women served the United States in non-combat roles. These roles were not without risk, though: 432 women gave their lives during the war, and a further 88 were taken as prisoners of war (DeSimone, 2022). It wasn’t until 1948 that President Harry S. Truman signed the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act into law, allowing women to serve as full, permanent Service members across the entire military. (The same year, President Truman also issued an executive order integrating the Armed Forces; in addition to desegregating the military, this order also allowed Black women to serve in all branches.) While President Truman’s order was an important step for women, it was still not a complete victory for equal opportunity; women were allowed to comprise only 2% of each branch, and there were limitations on how many women could become officers. Shortly after these acts and orders became law, U.S. involvement in the Korean War (1950–1953) saw 120,000 women serve in two types of positions: (1) those similar to the positions they served in in the past or (2) in active-duty, non-combat positions, such as military police officers and engineers. The U.S.’ involvement in the Vietnam War (1955–1975) resulted in nearly 11,000 women stationed in Vietnam, 90% of whom were nurses in the Army, Navy, and Air Force. It was during this war that President Lyndon B. Johnson allowed women to be promoted to general and flag ranks, and, by 1972, women were able to command units. And the following year, the Pentagon announced that women could remain in the military even if they were pregnant (DeSimone, 2022). Following the Korean and Vietnam Wars, women continued to pave their way in the U.S. Armed Forces, such that during the Gulf War (1990-1991), over 40,000 women deployed to combat zones, although they were still unable to serve in direct combat. Then, in 1994, President Bill Clinton rescinded the “Risk Rule,” which restricted women from serving in roles that would expose them to risks associated with direct combat (e.g., hostile fire, capture) (DeSimone, 2022). This meant that women could now serve in thousands of new positions, even those that could expose them to these risks (e.g., bomber pilot, fighter pilots) (McGrath, 2001). From the late 20th century to today, there has been a lot of progress for women in the United States Armed Forces, as well as a lot of firsts. The following is just a partial list: In 1975, Commander Paige Blok became the first woman Navy fighter pilot (Eckstein, 2019). Army Sargent Leigh Ann Hester was the first woman Soldier to be awarded the Silver Star, for bravery during a 2005 enemy ambush on her supply convoy in Iraq (DeSimone, 2022). In 2008, General Ann Dunwoody became the first woman four-star general, which happened to be for the Army (Lopez, 2012). And in 2013, Chief Karen Voorhees was the first woman Aviation Survival Technician to become Chief of the Coast Guard history (Booker, 2021). In addition to these noteworthy firsts, 2013 was also the year that Defense Secretary Leon Panetta announced the end of the ban on women in combat and that women Service members would be allowed to serve in direct ground combat roles. These changes took effect in 2015; women became eligible for thousands of military jobs as a result. Since then, over 100 women have graduated from the Army’s ranger school (DeSimone, 2022) and 8 have participated in the Navy SEAL officer assessment and selection process (Kime, 2022). The history of women in the U.S. Armed Forces speaks for itself, but it is worth noting that there are more women in the Forces than ever before. Since 9/11, more than 300,000 women have served in Iraq and Afghanistan since 9/11, and over 9,000 have earned Combat Action Badges. Today, women make up approximately 16% of our Armed Forces (DeSimone, 2022). The increase in women Service members makes it important to recognize not only their effects on the history of the military but also the unique experiences and challenges that women face while serving our country. One way to better understand these experiences is through research; luckily, Military REACH has an arsenal of it on women Service members. What we see in the research is similar to the history: though women are strong and resilient, they continue to face gendered challenges and have to advocate for themselves. One related and important note is that research is intended to help answer questions or find solutions to problems; therefore, research typically takes a deficits-based approach (Shea, 2021). Please keep this in mind when reading literature on the topic of women Service members. Across the literature, we have seen: Women reporting challenges to relationships, family life, marriage, pregnancy, and parenthood (Erwin, 2022; Leslie & Koblinsky, 2017; Lawrence et al., 2022). Women Service members affected disproportionately by intimate partner violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, and military sexual trauma (Portnoy et al., 2020; Dichter et al., 2018; Breslin et al., 2022; Dardis et al., 2017) Women facing health challenges, such as posttraumatic stress disorder, emotional reactivity, depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, chronic health conditions, increased tobacco and alcohol use, and obesity (Lehavot et al, 2012; Portnoy et al., 2020; Leslie & Koblinsky, 2017) Women reporting challenges to career development and navigation within the military (Erwin, 2022). However, even in the face of these challenges, Servicewomen still have positive things to say about their military experience, including their service attributing positive meaning to their lives (Leslie & Koblinsky, 2017). Military REACH in particular has heard first-hand perspectives of women in the military through the interviews we compiled in the Research-In-Action article, “Perspectives of Service among Women Service Members and Veterans.” Clearly, women are a force to be reckoned with, and I am proud to see the progress women have made and the barriers they have overcome to serve our country! Happy Women’s History Month, Servicewomen – and, most importantly, thank you for your service.
THEORY SERIES: FAMILY SYSTEMS THEORY IN A MILITARY CONTEXT
This month, Military REACH continues our Theory Series, where we break down the common frameworks family scientists use to better understand family experiences. Specifically, we will focus on Family Systems Theory (Kerr & Bowen, 1988). We will provide an overview of the model with examples from a vignette, connect it to military family experiences, and suggest how military families can use knowledge of Family Systems Theory to overcome the challenges they face. Family Systems Theory Overview Vignette: The 2002 Disney film Lilo and Stitch follows the adventures of Lilo and Nani Pelekai, two Hawaiian sisters, who must look out for one another after their parents die in an accident. Nani, the older sibling, becomes Lilo’s primary caretaker. To complicate things, the sisters are forced to adopt Stitch, an alien who crash-landed on Earth, as their pet. Throughout the film, the Lilo and Nani navigate their grief and adjust to their new family structure. Lilo and Stitch highlights the challenges that arise when life throws you curveballs, but also gives hope that family members can work together to overcome obstacles and create a new normal. According to Family Systems Theory, a family system is a collection of interdependent family members who seek to maintain a balance in overall family functioning. Each family member adopts a role (e.g., parent, child, sibling) based on the behavior they exhibit when interacting with other family members. These interactions can take place among subsystems of family members (e.g., parent-child, spouse-spouse, sibling-sibling) or among the family system as a whole. Key principles of Family Systems Theory (Smith & Hamon, 2017, Chapter 5): The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. The family system is not merely a collection of independent family members. Rather, family members are interdependent, and their interactions and experiences contribute to family functioning as a whole. Each member of the Pelekai family takes on an individual role (i.e., older sister/guardian, younger sister/dependent, and alien/pet). In addition to members as individuals, the network of relationships among Lilo, Nani, and Stitch (i.e., sister-sister, guardian-dependent, owner-pet) further constitutes their “family” unit. Individual and family behavior must be understood in context. Each individual is a cog in the machine of the family. Understanding an individual family member’s actions or behavior requires considering their needs, perspectives, or experiences. After losing their parents, Nani struggles to adapt to her new role as a parental figure and Lilo struggles to process the loss of her parents. The sisters’ individual stress influences their interactions with each another and leads to tension in their relationship. A family is a goal-seeking system. Family members work together to achieve common goals. These goals change as families grow and develop over time. At the threat of Lilo’s removal from Nani’s custody and placement into foster care, the sisters work to prove that Nani is a competent caretaker for Lilo. Families are self-regulating systems driven by feedback. Families respond to change through positive feedback loops (i.e., change that sustains or enhances) or negative feedback loops (i.e., change that causes fluctuations in family functioning). Though Stitch is initially a self-serving alien who creates chaos for the Pelekai sisters, Lilo’s repeated attempts at teaching Stitch kindness eventually lead the alien to understand the value of family love. Family systems seek to achieve equilibrium. In response to change, family systems look for stability and return to the status quo (i.e., equilibrium). Despite the wild adventures Lilo, Nani, and Stitch embark on throughout the film, in the end, their small family finds balance and creates a new normal. Family Systems Theory and Military Families Family Systems Theory emphasizes the importance of understanding the experiences of family members in the context of the family as a whole. This perspective of interdependence is particularly relevant for military families. For example, though Service members are deployed overseas and technically independent of their families, the at-home family members must respond to the stress and effects of deployment on their lives. Another example of familial interdependence is the lasting effects of trauma. Service members and Veterans who suffer traumatic experiences may develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD and its related symptoms (e.g., increased sensitivity, shorter temper) can alter how Service members and Veterans interact with their family members and it can affect their daily lives. Thus, just as a pebble tossed into a pond creates ripples regardless of the pebble’s size, individual experiences – military-specific or otherwise – have consequences for all family members, interactions among family members, and family functioning (Monk & Marini, 2022). Implications of Family Systems Theory for Military Families Family systems theory is a useful tool for military families to understand how to respond to stressful events. Here are some points your family can keep in mind moving forward: A family is a team. Think of each family member as a puzzle piece. Together, the pieces form a completed puzzle. One family member’s struggles can affect their relationships with and the well-being of other family members. Remembering that you are all on the same team and working together to support one another through family challenges (e.g., trauma, transition out of the military), can boost individual and family resilience. Instability doesn’t last forever. Change is normal, whether the result of stressful events (e.g., deployment) or common family transitions (e.g., parenthood, children leaving for college). Though changes can disrupt a family’s functioning, families have a natural tendency to return to stability. Like the pebble tossed into the pond, ripples will form – but, with time, they will also cease. In some cases, families can stabilize on their own by reevaluating their needs and collective goals and proceeding accordingly. Other times, families may be unsure how to overcome especially stressful circumstances on their own. Instead of a pebble, think of a boulder dropped into a pond. This time, the ripples are waves, and they may overturn your boat. During uncertain periods, seeking professional guidance (e.g., marriage and family therapy, mental health counseling) may help your family overcome stress and change and create a new normal. Communication is key. No one is a mind reader. When stress arises, family members need to communicate their needs. Doing so is easier when families establish clear communication plans and boundaries during periods of stability. Make it a habit to check in with one another and openly communicate your feelings. Ask what may be causing stress in your family members’ lives, so you’ll know when to be supportive. For example, when deployment looms, talk about what topics you will want to discuss during the deployment, how frequently you want to keep in touch, and which topics you want to wait to talk about until after the deployment.
STAYING “MERRY AND BRIGHT”: TIPS FOR OVERCOMING STRESS DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON
The holiday season can bring people together for food, family, and celebration, but it can also be a stressful time of year. Luckily, there are resources available to ease the stress many families experience to help them relax and have a joyful holiday. This article will discuss how holiday stress impacts military families, as well as some tips and resources for overcoming stress during the holiday season. Levels of Stress Holiday stress is usually associated with positive or tolerable stress levels, but it can be amplified for military families due to deployments or other military-specific challenges. There are three stress levels: positive, tolerable, and toxic (Franke, 2014). Positive stress provides just enough pressure on an individual to drive them forward and keep them moving (e.g., hoping to get that job promotion). Tolerable stress in an unexpected or sudden event that causes stress on the mind and body but is not severe or prolonged enough to have any long-lasting effects (e.g., family coming together for the holidays). Toxic stress occurs when there is prolonged stress on the body and mind, causing poor health overall, the potential for the development of chronic illness, a compromised immune system, and a low sense of wellbeing (e.g., experiencing abuse/neglect) (Franke, 2014; Edwards, 2016; APA, 2018). Deployments and Holiday Stress While the holidays are a busy time of year for all families, military families may experience the added stress of being separated from their loved ones due to deployments. According to Maj. Saul Cardona, separation from loved ones around the holidays may create a sense of emotional emptiness that could cause deployed Service members to take unnecessary risks during missions (13th Sustainment Command Expeditionary Public Affairs, 2009). Unnecessary risks while serving in the armed forces can be life threatening, so maintaining focus is crucial. Holiday stress may also be heightened even more so for civilian spouses, who are most often women, particularly during deployments. One study found that women were more likely than men to report high levels of stress during the holidays, especially those who took charge of preparing meals, making plans, and decorating (Greenberg, 2006). This suggests that taking on more tasks and responsibilities during the holiday season (in addition to an already full load) can create more stress than someone has the capacity for. Tips for Overcoming Holiday Stress Although stress is inevitable, the holiday season can still be full of wonder and joy. Check out our tips below to keep you and your family happy and healthy this season: Find balance: Don’t try to take on too much at one time! Make time for the preparations that go into the holiday season but build in time for self-care and quality time with your family and friends. Connect with the people around you: If you are separated from your family or your Service member, try to lean on others in your support system, whether that is other Service members, family, or friends. You could also take advantage of peer-to-peer support such as this option from Military OneSource. Don’t try to make up for your absence with overspending: For those who are separated from their loved ones, overspending or making extravagant plans could do more harm than good. Remember that nothing can replace the presence of a family member and know that there will be plenty of time for celebration when you are reunited. Engage in regular physical exercise: Staying active is an important part of being healthy and happy this holiday season. Exercise regularly to maintain your physical health and a positive sense of wellbeing. Practice habits that promote restful sleep: If you aren’t well rested, then you may not be at your best for the holidays. One quick tip to promote better sleep is to avoid eating a large meal and consuming caffeine or alcohol within 2-3 hours before bed. Holiday Resources for Military Families There are many resources out there for Service members and their families that provide support to those in need this holiday season. Check out the below resources for information on travel assistance, financial help, food insecurity, as well as general holiday season help for families and Service members. Travel Assistance: Military OneSource-Travel Benefits for College Students Who Are Military Family Members The resource above discusses the available travel benefits for college students who are in a Military family. Holiday Tree Assistance: The Christmas Spirit Foundation-Trees For Troops The Christmas Spirit Foundation-Trees for Troops program delivers Christmas trees to Military bases around the country for Service members and their families who may need assistance securing a tree for the holidays. The Christmas Tree Project The Christmas Tree Project helps to provide families in need with fully decorated Christmas trees. Holiday Meal Assistance: Operation Homefront-Holiday Meals For Military The Holiday Meals website is a resource discussing holiday meal programs at Military bases around the country. Gifting Assistance: My Brother’s Keeper-Christmas Gifting Program My Brother’s Keeper helps families in the Eastern Massachusetts area with holiday gifting, including children, teens, and parents. Armed Services YMCA-Operation Holiday Joy The Armed Services YMCA-Operation Holiday Joy program provides holiday meal supplies and gifts to families and children near ASYMCA locations. The Salvation Army-Angel Tree The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program helps to provide gifts to children in need during the holiday season. Financial Assistance: Operation Homefront-Critical Financial Assistance The Critical Financial Assistance program is a resource available to Military families who are in critical financial need, and is available all over the country. General Assistance: The Salvation Army-Brighten The Holidays The Brighten The Holidays is a resource that assists families in a variety of ways (e.g., paying a bill) around the country. Contact a nearby branch to see what services are available. American Red Cross-Services for Military and Veteran Families The American Red Cross is available to Military families and provides 24/7 support all year long. Explore the website above to discover the services are available (e.g., financial assistance). The holidays should be a magical time of year filled with wonder and joy for all, however people all across the country feel the added weight of holiday stress. Just know that you aren’t alone! There are people and resources available to help you and your family combat holiday stress and celebrate “the most wonderful time of the year”.
Military REACH Recognized for Contribution to Serving Military Families
This month Military REACH was recognized for their contribution to the Military and Family Readiness Foundational course. Since 2020, the team has provided briefings to newly hired Military and Family Readiness Center personnel. The aim of these briefings is to inform new personnel about the importance of making research-informed decisions for service provision. These briefings take place three times a year at Air University, Eaker Center for Leadership Development, Force Support Professional Development School, located at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama. This recognition acknowledges the team's success in providing practitioners access to high-quality research that supports their efforts in bolstering military families’ readiness and resilience. Congratulations are extended to each member of the Military REACH team for this achievement, as they have collectively educated 750 Department of the Air Force Human and Social Services professionals. Please join us in celebrating this achievement!
Military REACH presents at the Military & Family Readiness Foundational Course
This month, Military REACH presented at the Military and Family Readiness Foundational Course for the Department of the Air Force at Maxwell Air Force Base. We connected with Military Family Readiness consultants from around the world to share how Military REACH can be a tool for creating a research-informed culture of service provision at their local Military and Family Readiness Centers. If your team or organization would like a brief, virtual briefing on the mission of Military REACH and the products that our team produces, please contact us as MilitaryREACH@auburn.edu.
REACH presents at the Military & Family Readiness Summit
This month, Drs. Lucier-Greer and O'Neal presented at the Military and Family Readiness Summit for the Department of the Air Force (DAF) in San Antonio, TX. Their goal was to share how Military REACH translates and synthesizes research so it can be used to support military families. Attendees included Active-Duty and Reserve Readiness NCOs as well as M&FR leadership teams from A1SA, USSF, AFPC/DPFF, AFRC, and ANG.
ALLISON TIDWELL SUCCESSFULLY DEFENDS HER THESIS
It’s a time to celebrate! Allison Tidwell, Graduate Research Assistant for Military REACH, recently defended her master’s thesis. For the past two years, she’s completed coursework towards her master’s degree in Human Development and Family Science, and for the last year, she has been working on her thesis titled: Should I stay or should I go? An examination of the effects of work and family factors on active duty and National Guard and Reserve service members’ military career intentions. Using data from the All Army Study component of the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Service members (Army STARRS AAS), the purpose of Allison’s study was to explore how work-related factors, family-related factors, and mental health contribute to a Service members’ intentions to stay in or leave the military, and whether the contributions of these factors differed between active-duty and National Guard or Reserve personnel. The Department of Defense sets annual retention goals to retain a highly-trained, ready defense force. To achieve these retention goals, it is important to examine what factors contribute to Service members intentions to stay in or leave the military. Given the differences in monthly time commitment to military duties between full-time, active-duty Service members and part-time, National Guard or Reserve Service members, factors contributing to career intentions may differ between these two groups. Overall, this study has several implications for promoting retention among Service members: Unit leaders and subordinates can work to create more supportive work environments and policies that help Service members balance their work and family obligations (e.g., shorter deployments, maternity and paternity leave, remote work opportunities) Unit leaders can be trained to recognize signs of declining mental health and refer their unit members to appropriate health care resources. Importantly, while some work-related factors and family-related factors were stronger indicators of mental health and military career intentions for active-duty or National Guard or Reserve personnel, these factors still remained important for career intentions across both groups. This finding suggests limited differences in how Service members’ perceptions of their work environment, family life, and mental health contribute to intentions to remain and intentions to leave based on active-duty or National Guard or Reserve status. Allison is graduating with her master’s degree in Human Development and Family Science this fall. This spring, she will continue studying military families while working towards her Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Science.
STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS: KILLIAN FAULK, UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER
STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS: KILLIAN FAULK, UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCHER By: Kate Abbate Killian Faulk is an intern with Military REACH and became interested in our project because she is an Air Force ROTC cadet and is obtaining her degree in Human Development and Family Science (HDFS). When I met Killian, I could tell she was eager to find a way to merge her two worlds of the military and HDFS, so REACH was a natural fit! Killian has been an asset to our team, and her teammates describe her as positive, hard-working, receptive to feedback, and responsible – all of which are incredibly valuable traits. Because of Killian’s upbringing, career field, and degree, she offers a unique perspective to each of the tasks she works on and continually provides our team with valuable insight into military life (e.g., rewards and challenges of growing up in a National Guard family, how current policies affect ROTC cadets). Continue reading to learn more about Killian, specifically the deciding factor for her to join the Armed Forces, what it’s like to be a Military REACH intern, and more! 1. What are three words your friends/family would use to describe you and why? My friends and family would describe me as committed, attentive, and selfless. Committed because when I set my heart or mind to a goal, I am dedicated to accomplishing it no matter how much hard work goes into it or the amount of frustration I get from it. Attentive because my friends describe me as a good listener, someone they feel like they can come to for advice, or "the mom friend.” Selfless because of the Air Force core value, “service before self,” that resonates with me the most. I try to do what I can to help someone else even if I don’t have anything to gain from it other than feeling good about being helpful. 2. What influenced your decision to join the Armed Forces, specifically the Air Force? I grew up watching and hearing my parents talk about their careers in the Army, and that’s how I knew I wanted to be a part of something like that. Sometimes they would even let me attend the events they participated in. I loved getting a peek into what they were doing - I just thought it was cool. I chose the Air Force, because when I told my parents I wanted to join the military, they said the Air Force is “the nicest.” At that time, I liked the Air Force because their color was blue, and they had cool airplanes (I was 11 years old). However, over the years as I have learned more about the Air Force, it just feels like the right fit for me. Since joining AFROTC, I have not second guessed my decision. The people and culture make me feel at home. 3. You are an Air Force ROTC cadet and majoring in Human Development and Family Science (HDFS). How do these two worlds overlap? When I originally started my degree in HDFS, I had no idea these two areas would overlap as much as they do. However, it makes sense, because both fields are people- and service-focused. Through HDFS, I have learned how to better serve people through education and resources and have enhanced my skills in becoming a helping professional. In AFROTC, I have learned to be a selfless leader, follower, and wingman. Between the training I’ve gained from both fields, I have been able to improve my interpersonal skills and grow as a well-rounded professional, which is important with many of the Air Force career fields (e.g., Force Support Officer [elaborated on below]). 4. What would be your Air Force dream job? Surprisingly, my dream job is the one I was assigned by the Air Force! My Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) is Force Support Officer. As a Force Support Officer, I have the potential to work in a few different areas related to supporting people (e.g., personnel and admin, education and training, child development centers and youth programs, recreation and fitness, equal opportunity, sexual assault prevention). At some point in my career, I would love to work with the child development centers and youth programs on base. 5. What were your expectations when you first started working with Military REACH? I hoped to become more knowledgeable about the resources available to military families so I could advocate for them when I commission into the Air Force. I also wanted to improve my writing skills and learn more about military families from a research lens versus what I saw growing up and through AFROTC. Most of my previous knowledge about military families came from my parents serving in the Army and my participation in Air Force ROTC. 6. What skills and experiences have you gained while working with Military REACH? I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect when I agreed to be a part of the Military REACH research project, but I have been surprised by the variety of tasks I have been able to complete (e.g., assisting with research reports, leading social media meetings). Since working with Military REACH, I have had the opportunity to write in a variety of formats ranging from creating social media posts to writing evidence-based articles focused on the well-being of military families. These different writing opportunities are refreshing because they have been new ventures for me. I have gained a newfound sense of confidence in my writing skills, learned more about research and how it informs policy and practice, and have learned about available resources I can use for myself, my family, and my fellow Service members. 7. What have you learned about yourself while working with Military REACH? The most important thing I learned about myself while working with Military REACH is that I love the career path I’m on! Everything I have done with REACH has helped me to lay the foundation for what I will be doing in the Air Force, and it continuously builds my excitement about this career. My internship with REACH bridges my knowledge and skills from both HDFS and AFROTC, which is something I have not experienced until now. Previously, HDFS and AFROTC seemed like two separate parts of my life. Military REACH has offered me the opportunity to contribute to the project in meaningful ways by allowing me to use my strengths from both worlds.
KILLIAN FAULK, AFROTC CADET, PRESENTS ABOUT MILITARY REACH TO UPCOMING COMMISSIONING AIR FORCE OFFICERS
The goal of Military REACH is to make research practical and accessible to military families, direct service helping professionals, and those who work on behalf of military families. We do this in a variety of ways, including disseminating research findings directly to the Department of Defense, our website, through our [monthly newsletter](https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/Updates), posting research findings on social media, and by presenting our work at conferences. Our students also play a vital role in our ability to spread the word about Military REACH. Recently, Killian Faulk, our undergraduate researcher and Air Force ROTC cadet, presented to seniors in her class about Military REACH. The students attending the presentation are cadets preparing to graduate, commission, and begin a career in the Air Force, so the information provided them the opportunity to learn more about available resources and how to handle potential situations they may be involved in throughout their careers (e.g., how to support someone with PTSD, where to access resources for families, preparing families for, and returning from, deployment). Killian’s presentation focused on providing the cadets with a basic understanding of human sciences, how human sciences and the military overlap, and why research and outreach matter. Her presentation ended with an interactive question and answer segment related to recent research findings. This segment was eye-opening for the cadets and sparked conversations about (1) the importance of staying abreast on current research findings, (2) the importance of looking for opportunities to continually improve their knowledge and understanding about their careers, and (3) how research informs leadership. To ensure you are up to date on the latest research regarding the well-being of military families, sign up for our monthly newsletter to receive quick access to 12 new research summaries each month. You can also follow us on social media to get quick bites of research findings and learn about available resources targeted towards military families. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn @MilitaryREACH.
OPERATION IRON RUCK: JOINING FORCES TO COMBAT VETERAN SUICIDE HELP
This month’s Mission: Alabama topic, Operation Iron Ruck: Joining Forces to combat Veteran Suicide, centers around Veterans and their need for community support when returning home. The article discusses the different faces of our Veterans, the impact isolation has on their physical and mental health, and Operation Iron Ruck, a local program whose purpose is to raise awareness about suicide among Veterans and foster connections between Veterans and their communities. The overall goal of this topic was to bring awareness to the needs of Veterans. In short, Veterans need their community’s support when transitioning back to civilian life. You can support our Veterans by participating in programs like, Operation Iron Ruck, donating to local Veterans’ organizations, such as Three Hots and a Cot, or by continuing to enhance your military cultural competence. Check out AL.com each month to read their new monthly column. To read previous Mission: Alabama stories, check out the Military REACH website or AL.com. Dr. Mallory Lucier-Greer, associate professor at Auburn University, and Dr. David L. Albright, professor at the University of Alabama, partnered with AL.com to write a monthly column, Mission: Alabama. The monthly column has four primary goals, including… 1. bringing awareness to the well-being of Service members, Veterans (SM/Vs), and their families globally and in Alabama, 2. dispelling myths that surround military service, 3. highlighting resources that are available across our state to serve SM/Vs and their families, and 4. advocating for the needs of SM/Vs and their families. ________________________________________ Dr. Mallory Lucier-Greer is the Project Director for Military REACH at Auburn University and an associate professor for Human Development and Family Science in Auburn’s College of Human Sciences. Dr. David L. Albright is the Director for the Office for Military Families and Veterans and Vital Principal Investigator at the University of Alabama.
JAMES DUNCAN, PHD – MILITARY REACH CONTENT EXPERT
Dr. James Duncan is an instructor in the School of Human Environmental Sciences at the University of Arkansas, the president for the Southeastern Council on Family Relations, an Air Force veteran, and has been a content expert with Military REACH for over a year. Dr. Duncan uniquely offers both research expertise and real-life experience to the work of Military REACH. He primarily works on TRIP reports as an editor, but we have recently enjoyed some of his non-academic writing in a family article titled “Life after deployment” where Dr. Duncan beautifully shares his story of reintegration and effortlessly connects it to military family research. To learn more about James’ military experience and time at Military REACH, check out our conversation below. 1. What motivated you to join the Air Force and how long did you serve? I was motivated to join the military because I felt it could give me a reliable environment to live in and learn to be independent (steady paycheck, education, etc.). In fact, I had to have my mother also sign the entry paperwork because I was only 17 and not a legal adult. Essentially, I grew up in a single parent household and was the oldest of three siblings. Growing up, I spent most of my time helping take care of my siblings while my mother worked. Joining the military allowed me to still help others, like I helped my own family members, but also gave me a chance to be on my own and become autonomous. I served on active duty for 6 years. 2. How many times did you deploy, and what were your responsibilities as a Lead Convoy Commander? I deployed to Iraq twice. The first time, when I was 18, I helped with basic security operations of convoys that moved supplies, mainly handling armor, weapon, and ammo readiness for truck gunners that guarded supply vehicles as they traveled from base to base. Then when I was 21, I was a staff sergeant (non-commissioned officer, E-5) who served as a lead vehicle convoy commander. LVCC responsibilities included serving as the navigator for convoys by being in the lead vehicle (first vehicle in the line of 20-30 vehicles), reviewing travel routes and making adjustments to travel routes based on security issues both before and during actual travel throughout Iraq, spotlight searching routes while driving for identification of possible improvised explosive devices, leading safety maneuver briefings so other vehicle operators could be prepared to respond to combat situations while driving, and once on a forward operating base helping to manage logistics of routing the convoys to supply drop off and pick up locations, vehicle refueling points, and vehicle parking. 3. What motivated you to get your PhD? I was motivated to get my PhD because I believed I still had a lot of learning to do regarding individual and family functioning and well-being. I knew that I would be able to direct that learning specifically toward military families because graduate school tends to let you narrow down and specialize topics of interest. I felt that a PhD would help me learn from other professionals about important military and veteran issues so that I could help others and be able to confidently tell them that resources I am providing are based not only on my own experience as a veteran but also on credible research from other sources. 4. What drew you to Military REACH? What drew me to Military REACH was specifically one of its driving concepts. That is to take important information on research and resources and translate it in a way that makes it accessible to everyone regardless of their educational background. I feel like for myself and other veterans and military families that we know research and resources may exist to help us, but sometimes we do not know where to locate them. Military REACH provides an easily accessible way to locate valuable information and tries to make sure that you can not only access it but understand it as well so that you can make use of it. 5. What has been your favorite part of working with Military REACH? team members have military family affiliations, some do not, but all team members have shown strong passion and dedication towards the project. This has made it a great work environment because, regardless of leadership positions, all team members have been receptive to feedback, open to learning about new concepts, and able to communicate freely regardless of work location. All these reasons and more always makes me think of the saying, “teamwork makes the dream work.” For me this teamwork allows for military focused research/resources to get into the hands of those who need it, which for me personally is my dream work. In fact, 10 years from now I hope to be in a position where I am still doing something along the lines of the work I do with Military REACH, like working with the university student veteran resource center, where I can provide resources to other military affiliated people so they can be successful. Military REACH TRIP reports are better because of James’ valuable insight and experience. Thank you James for translating research into practice for military families!
AIRMEN & FAMILY READINESS COURSE AT MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE
The purpose of Military REACH is to mobilize research and promote family readiness by making research accessible and practical. One way Military REACH aims to mobilize research is by engaging the professionals who have direct contact with military families. Last week the Military REACH team was invited to Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, AL to speak at the Airmen and Family Readiness Centers (A&FRC) Course. The A&FRC Course is a required training for recently hired Family Readiness Consultants to ensure they are well informed about the resources available to them while working with Airmen and their families. The REACH team spoke with Consultants about the purpose of Military REACH, ways to access research (e.g., MilitaryREACH.org, Monthly Newsletter, social media), and the importance of linking research to practice. At the end of the session, the group collaboratively brainstormed tangible ways to promote a culture of evidence-based practice at A&FRCs. Two examples they came up with were: 1. starting off team meetings by discussing a key finding from a particular TRIP report and 2. ending e-mails with a key finding they learned during the week. Both great ideas! Military REACH is thankful for opportunities to share our mission and vision for bridging the gap between research and practice with professionals like Family Readiness Consultants. To learn more about Military REACH, visit our website at MilitaryREACH.org.
DR. GREER AND MR. EDDY MENTZER PRESENTED AT AUBURN FAMILY FRIDAY SPEAKER SERIES, “MOBILIZING FAMILY SCIENCE RESEARCH TO SUPPORT MILITARY FAMILIES”
Mallory Lucier-Greer Associate Professor, Human Development and Family Studies, College of Human Sciences; Principal Investigator, Military REACH Mallory Lucier-Greer earned her master’s and doctorate degrees at Auburn University in 2008 and 2012, respectively. Then, after a brief time away, she found her way back to the Plains and joined the faculty in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies in 2017. She is an applied researcher focused on the well-being of families with a clinical background as a marriage and family therapist. Greer’s work, which has been supported by U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force, examines how stressors impact families and the individuals who reside within them. Family stressors include both normative family transitions, such as marriage and navigating co-parenting, as well as situational stressors that are specific to a family’s context. For military families, situational stressors include, but are not limited to, transitions related to deployments and regular relocations. Importantly, she and her team identify leverage points, or points of intervention, to help families produce positive changes even in the context of stress. These leverage points range from community-based resources, such as family programs and supportive networks, to couple- and family-level skills, including demonstrations of warmth, support and connection. Greer is an award-winning educator and researcher. Last year, she and her colleagues were honored with the Excellence in Research on Military and Veteran Families Award. Associate Director, Office of Military Family Readiness Policy, Department of Defense C. Eddy Mentzer brings more than 27 years of personal and professional experience in supporting military families through a variety of roles across the Department of Defense and federal government. He joined the DoD’s Office of Military Family Readiness Policy in August 2010 and assumed the duties of associate director in 2016. As associate director, he is responsible for management of the DoD’s family readiness and well-being policies and programs. These efforts include policy oversight and programmatic support to the military service-delivered family readiness system to include child care and youth development, family support centers and a variety of initiatives designed to assist service members and their families throughout their military life. Mentzer leads a team focused on easing the impact of challenges faced by military families as a result of the often unpredictable and mobile nature of military life. In addition to policy and programmatic oversight across the DoD, he works regularly with a variety of stakeholders representing both intra-governmental, non-profit and community based organizations. In this role, Mr. Mentzer manages the DoD/USDA Partnership for Military Families. This unique federal partnership leverages the expertise of land grant university research, programming and faculty in support of military families. Prior to his work in the DoD’s Office of the Secretary of Defense, Mentzer was a national program leader within the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture where he managed multiple global programs in support of military children, youth and families. From 1992-2004, he was a Department of the Air Force civilian managing numerous child, youth, education and family support programs at a variety of levels throughout Europe. Mentzer is married to an active duty Air Force colonel and the parent of a military child. He is a recognized speaker on the challenges faced by military families having appeared at countless radio, television and face-to-face events.