PRE DEPLOYMENT PREPARATIONS
Your specific questions not covered in the FAQs. Please keep in mind that the answers are based on my experiences and inquiries. Please check and verify with your individual command.
WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO TO ENSURE THAT MY FAMILY IS GOING TO BE OK WHEN HE IS GONE?
Deployment is never an easy thing to handle. You may be left with children to take care of, pregnant, or new to the area. There are, however, a few things you can do in preparation for his deployment to ensure peace of mind.
Look at your ID card and make sure that the expiration date is not before his return. If it is before, then that is something he needs to take care of before he leaves.
Make sure that POWER OF ATTORNEY is in order, updated and in a safe place that is easy to find.
Make sure that the WILL is current, updated, and in a safe place that is easy to find. I know that a lot of you think that this is a morbid subject and would rather not speak or think of it much less make one. But ladies, this is one of those things we all need to accept. We have accepted that he is a Marine, and his job is very dangerous.
Make sure that the family car is in good condition, ie: tires rotated, tuned-up, all electricals are in good working condition, windshield wipers are working, registration is up-to-date, and insurance is current(base law).
Make sure that all dependants are currently enrolled in Family dental plan and Tricare.
Make sure that the Direct Deposit is going to the right accounts. Something to think about is split pay. That is when he specifically puts a certain amount in the checking account for you to pay bills, groceries and miscellaneous bills. Basically, money you need to have to keep things in order back home. The other amount is especially for him as spending money while he is gone. Keep in mind that he will still need money to provide himself with necessities, ie: soap, toothpaste, uniform stuff, etc. Make sure that you both agree that the division of the paycheck is going to work for the both of you.
Attend a Pre-deployment briefing if available. If not, contact your Key volunteer and let her know the situation. Keep her phone number handy in case you need to reach her. Remember that she is there to help you. IMPORTANT: Provide you KV with your phone number locally and if you decide to visit outside of the command vacinity, then give her the number as well. This is one of the most important advices I can give. This is not to keep track of your personal business, this is necessary in case you need to be notified of any changes or emergencies that occur during his deployment.
Make sure that you have the numbers to important resources such as Navy Relief, Family Service Center. Your KV will be able to provide you with these information.
If he is with the MEU go to the Marine Corps Web Page and click on Expeditionary Units for up to date information on their deployment.
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