Diamond View

  • Published
  • By MSgt. John Deegan
  • 75 CEG First Sergeant
How can you best care for your family? One of the most important considerations is to ensure that your family is taken care of during times of your absence. A good plan is very important for all families, and is especially critical for single parents and parents who may have simultaneous absence from home. Another consideration is for family members with limited command of the English language, the inability to drive, or gain access to basic life-sustaining facilities. 

Your plan should include the ability to provide financial, medical, and logistical support (housing, food, clothing, transportation, etc.) for your dependents. These plans include provisions for short-term absences (such as TDY for schooling, training, or Reserve/Guard duty) and long-term absences (such as operational deployments) and designate a caregiver for the affected family members. Financial arrangements may include powers of attorney, allotments, and other documents necessary for care of the family or caregiver should it become necessary. Ensure the caretaker has been thoroughly briefed on financial arrangements, logistical arrangements, military facilities, services, benefits, and entitlements of the family members must also be included.

When you prepare your plan, the following are things to consider: Obtain ID and commissary cards, register in DEERS, and check to make sure all ID cards have not expired. Sign up for SGLI or a similar group life insurance, and update all beneficiary information. Inform your spouse or any caretakers about your financial matters. Arrange for the guardian to have access to necessary funds. Arrange for child care, education and medical care. Arrange for necessary travel and escort to transfer family members to their guardian. Discuss your plans with your older children. Additional items may be required to fit individual situations. In addition to a family care plan, everyone is strongly encouraged to have a will. For personal help building a family care plan, whether military or civilian, you can see your local First Sergeant.