ORIENTATION HANDBOOK FAMILY READINESS GROUP (FRG) VOLUNTEERS VERSION 1.3 PUBLISHED 21 NOVEMBER 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS WELCOME…….……………………………………………….….....3 GETTING STARTED….……………………………………..……..10 BEST PRACTICES…..………………………………………….…31 MILITARY 101………………………………………………………39 BRIGADE OVERVIEW & RESOURCES ………………………..43 ADDITIONAL RESOURCES……………………………………...47 ONLINE RESOURCE DIRECTORY……………………………...54
WELCOME
STATE FAMILY PROGRAMS WELCOME LETTER
FAMILY READINESS FLOW CHART
ACRONYM GLOSSARY
Dear Volunteers, On behalf of Family Programs I would like to welcome you to the MN Family Readiness Group (FRG) Program. We are thrilled that you want to support the MN Army National Guard Service Members and Families. Your dedication and time are very much appreciated. This orientation guide has been created to help assist you in getting started with your new role with the FRG. You will find some basic information on the FRG, best practices, helpful resources, history of the unit you support, and also a checklist to help make sure you take it all in. If at any time you have questions about anything you read please contact your FRSA or myself and we can help you through it. So again, thank you for your service and commitment and we look forward to working with you and supporting you in your new role! Jan Fournier MN Senior Family Readiness Support Assistant jan.k.fournier.ctr@mail.mil 651-282-4208
FRG Volunteer Orientation Handbook: Frequently Used Acronyms Referenced in handbook AFTB ANG / ARNG AR ARC Arforgen BCT BDE BN BSB BSTB BTYR CAB CAV CDR / CMD CNO DCS DEERS DIV DoD ESGR FA FAC FRA FRG FRSA FYI IN/INF JSS LES MFLC MNANG MNGYC MOS MPOC
Army Family Team Building Army National Guard / Air National Guard Army Regulations American Red Cross Army Force Generation (referenced from article in handbook) Brigade Combat Team Brigade Battalion Brigade Support Battalion Brigade Special Troop Battalion Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Combined Arms Battalion Calvary Commander/Command Casualty Notification Officer Deployment Cycle Support Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System—TRICARE Division Department of Defense Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves Field Artillery Family Assistance Center Family Reintegration Academy Family Readiness Group Family Readiness Support Assistant For Your Information Infantry Joint Services Support (Website) Leave and Earnings Statement Military Family Life Consultant Minnesota Army National Guard Minnesota Guard Youth Camp Military One Source Military Point of Contact
FRG Volunteer Orientation Handbook: Frequently Used Acronyms Referenced in handbook continued... MRE NACCRRA NCO OMCC OMK OPSEC PAO POC POS RDC SOMK SOP STX USAFR VA vFRG VTC
Mission Rehearsal Exercise (also refers to ‘Meals Ready to Eat’) National Association of Child Care Resources & Referral Agencies Noncommissioned Officer Operation Military Child Care Operation Military Kids Operation Security Public Affairs Officer Point of Contact Point of Service Rear Detachment Commander Speak Out for Military Kids Standard Operating Procedure Situational Training Exercise Unites States Air Force Reserves Department of Veterans Affairs (formerly Veterans Administration) Virtual Family Readiness Group (FRG website) Video Teleconferencing
Other frequently used acronyms... 30 Day Event
ACU
Reintegration event held for Soldier and Family Members 30 Days after the Troops return home from deployment. Reintegration event held for Soldiers and Family Members 60 Days after the Troops return home from deployment. Reintegration event for Soldiers only. Held approximately 90 Days after the Troops return home from deployment. Army Combat Uniform (current uniform worn by Soldier)
AD
Active Duty
ADJ
Adjutant
AER
Army Emergency Relief
AFAP
Army Family Action Plan
AG
Adjutant General
AGR
Active Guard and Reserves
60 Day Event 90 Day Event
FRG Volunteer Orientation Handbook: Frequently Used Acronyms Other frequently used acronyms... AIT AKO APF APFT
Advanced Infantry Training Army Knowledge Online Appropriated Funds Army Physical Fitness Test
ARNGUS
Army National Guard of the United States
AT BDU
Annual Training Battle Dress Uniform (former uniform worn by Soldier)
BLUF BTRY CAO CG CO COB EIN ETA
Bottom Line Up Front Battery Casualty Assistance Officer Commanding General Company Close of business Employer Identification Number (IRS)窶馬eeded for FRG checking Estimated Time of Arrival
FCP FDU FPA
FRPT
Family Care Plan Full Dress Uniform Family Prep Academy (Soldier/Family training held prior to deployment) Family Reintegration Academy (Family Training held prior to Troops return from deployment) Family Readiness Programs Training
FYSA HHC JAG MACOM
For Your Situational Awareness Headquarters and Headquarters Company Judge Advocate General Major Army Command
NAF NGB NGR
Non-Appropriated Funds National Guard Bureau National Guard Regulation
FRA
FRG Volunteer Orientation Handbook: Frequently Used Acronyms Other frequently used acronyms… NLT OIC PERSEC PT RD
No later than Officer-in-charge Personal Security Physical Training Rear Detachment
REG
Regulation
REGT ROTC SFPD SM SQD SQDN SRP TAG TDY
Regiment Reserve Officer’s Training Corps State Family Program Director Servicemember / Service Member Squad Squadron Soldier Readiness Process The Adjutant General Temporary Duty
USAR VEAP V/R, XO
U.S. Army Reserve Veterans Educational Assistance Program Very Respectfully, (e-mail etiquette closing for e-mails to Command) Executive Officer
GETTING STARTED
GETTING STARTED CHECKLIST
ONLINE RESOURCES REGISTRATION
JOINT SERVICES SUPPORT (JSS) GUIDE
FAMILY READINESS GROUP (FRG) BASICS
“FAMILY READINESS IN THE ARFORGEN CYCLE”
VOLUNTEER POSTION DESCRIPTIONS
VOLUNTEER PAPERWORK
FRG GOAL WORKSHEET
GETTING STARTED: PAPERWORK NOTES
Review Family Readiness Group Basics Section
Read: “Family Readiness in the Arforgen Cycle”
Review volunteer position description
Obtain official position appointment memo Return a Copy to FRSA
Complete MN National Guard Family Programs Volunteer Agreement Return a Copy to FRSA
Complete DD Form 2793 Volunteer Agreement Return a Copy to FRSA
If applicable, complete new FRG charter application (A new or updated charter must be submitted to State Family Programs whenever there is a change to the Commander or FRG Leader on the previous charter). Return a Copy to FRSA
For Treasurers ONLY, complete FRG grant application ($1,000 grant available to FRGs on an annual basis) Return original to FRSA
Complete FRG Goal Worksheet Return a Copy to FRSA
ONLINE RESOURCE REGISTRATION
Suggested Best Practices:
Use an existing FRG email or create a new email i.e. BravoCompanyFRG@gmail.com for all official FRG communication
Use personal (not FRG) email to sign up for online resources
Notes
Sign up: Joint Services Support Website
Sign up: Virtual Family Readiness Group Website
Sign up: My Army One Source Website
Sign up: Military OneSource Website
FAMILY READINESS ONLINE RESOURCES
JOINT SERVICES SUPPORT: www.jointservicessupport.org The JSS provides you access to the professional management tools and resources you can use to organize activities, create a network of Guard Families and Family members, or find assistance to improve your daily life. This is also where you will log you volunteer hours. User Name and Password: ___________________________________________
BEYOND THE YELLOW RIBBON: www.beyondtheyellowribbon.org Beyond the Yellow Ribbon is a comprehensive program that creates awareness for the purpose of connecting Service members and their families with community support, training, services and resources. User Name and Password: ___________________________________________
MILITARY ONESOURCE: www.militaryonesource.mil This is a U.S. Department of Defense program that provides resources and support to active-duty, National Guard and Reserve service members and their families anywhere in the world. The program is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at no cost to users. User Name and Password: ___________________________________________
vFRG (VIRTUAL FAMILY READINESS GROUP): www.armyfrg.org The vFRG is designed to support and improve how information is passed to families when Soldiers are deployed. It also allows for better communication with the command and with the FRG members on a year round basis. User Name and Password: ___________________________________________
ARMY ONESOURCE: www.myarmyonesource.com Provides training and knowledge to support the total Army effort. It also provides information, services and much-needed outreach to military service members and their families. Email address used to register for mailing list: ___________________________________________
FAMILY READINESS GROUP BASICS FRG AUTHORITY According to Army Regulations (608-1), the FRG is; a commander’s program formed in accordance with AR 600-20 and AR 608-1 Appendix J to provide activities and support that encourage self-sufficiency among its members by providing information, referral assistance, and mutual support.
FRG DEFINITION AR 608-1 continues to state; An FRG is a command-sponsored organization of Soldiers, civilian employees, family members (immediate and extended) and volunteers belonging to a unit.
THE FRG IS NOT... Just for deployment The ladies’ coffee group Only for people with “problems” A babysitting service Part of the casualty notification process Fundraising entity for the unit FRG MISSION Act as an extension of the unit in providing official, accurate command information Provide mutual support between the command and the FRG members. Allow Commanders to have a connection to the pulse of family issues and needs. Assist families by collaborating with civilian and military personnel and referring them to appropriate agencies & resources.
Provide a connection to the unit through which families are able to develop friendships and receive moral support.
FRG DOCUMENTS There are several important documents that support a Commander’s family readiness program. Note: A copy of these documents are kept at the unit in the FRG Binder or Treasurer Binder. To review these documents, you can request a copy of these documents from the commander or unit staff.
Family Readiness Plan: Establishes procedures for the unit and FRG in order to promote family Programs which benefit Soldiers and their Families.
Communication Plan: Establishes procedures in regards to communication between command, Family Readiness Group (FRG) leadership, and military Families for the unit and FRG.
FAMILY READINESS GROUP BASICS FRG DOCUMENTS CONTINUED…
FRG Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): Provides guidance for sustaining family readiness group (FRG) activities for a specific unit.
FRG Informal Funds SOP: Provides procedures for managing the FRG Informal Funds.
FRG RELATIONSHIPS In order to have an effective and efficient FRG, many people must be involved. The Commander of the unit, the FRG Leader, the FRG Treasurer, Alternate Treasurer and the FRG Secretary are the key volunteer members of the leadership group. Before starting to volunteer all volunteers within the FRG must first complete a state Volunteer Agreement and fill out a DD Form 2793, both found at the end of this section. Upon completion, these documents should be submitted to the Battalion Family Readiness Support Assistant (FRSA) to be sent to State Family Programs.
FRG MEMBERSHIP Membership is open to individuals who are part of the Soldier’s support system.
Commanders Service Members (both married and single) Any family member (Spouses, Children, Parents, Siblings, Grandparents, Etc.) Girlfriend / Boyfriend Fiancés Retirees Friends Community Members
FRG ACTIVITIES The activities of an FRG fit into two basic categories: mission essential and non-mission essential.
MISSION ESSENTIAL FRG Member Meetings: The frequency will vary on the deployment cycle stage and is defined in the Commander’s Family Readiness Plan.
Resource & Referral: Stay up to date on family assistance resources but do not try to be the subject matter expert on all resources. If an individual is requesting an overview of resources available to them, refer them to their local Family Assistance Center (FAC).
FAMILY READINESS GROUP BASICS MISSION ESSENTIAL ACTIVITIES CONTINUED...
Collection and Maintenance of Family Information: Soldiers are often asked to complete a Soldier Family Information Data form on which they designate a primary and secondary point of contact (POC). The data on these sheets can be used to update the FRG email distribution lists and phone trees so that the POCs stay connected i.e. receive unit updates, FRG newsletters, an invite to the Virtual Family Readiness Group website etc.
Note: A sample Soldier Family Information Data form is included in the best practices section.
NON-ESSENTIAL MISSION ACTIVITIES Social activities: These are important for people to feel that they have support, but should usually be paired with the distribution of information and available resources. Example: First half of FRG meeting is an educational piece on a pertinent subject and the second half is for a social event.
Fundraising activities: The FRG is NOT a fundraising committee, though sometimes fundraising will be necessary.
Note: The commander’s FRG Informal Fund SOP includes details on appropriate use of FRG funds.
FRG INFORMAL FUNDS The FRG Treasurer and/or Alternate Treasurer are responsible for managing the informal funds account. While the commander and FRG leader oversee the activity of the account they are not allowed to be signatories on the account per Army Regulation 608-1, Appendix J. Required Training: Complete the MN FRG Fund Management Training either online or at the annual State Family Readiness Program Training to ensure an understanding of the proper use and documentation required for the FRG Informal Funds account. See page 12 of this manual for details on accessing this training.
FRG COMMUNICATION TOOLS FRGs have a range of communication tools at their disposal. At a minimum, FRGs need to have an email distribution, phone tree and Virtual Family Readiness Group Website to keep families up-to-date on events and resources. Additional communication tools are:
FRG Meetings FRG Newsletter Unit Newsletter Facebook (Must receive commander approval and admin support from a full time unit staff member)
Sample MN Volunteer Appointment Memo
Sample MN Volunteer Agreement Form
Sample DD Form 2793—Volunteer Form Note: Treasurers and Alternate Treasurers fill out sections 1 & 2. All other volunteers fill out sections 1 & 3.
FRG GOALS WORKSHEET As you start out in your new FRG volunteer role we encourage you to explore and set new goals for your volunteer term. Vision Statement: What would you like the FRG to look like this year?
Goals: What are your goals for your position and how will you achieve them?
Measurable Objective: What do you think the FRG can achieve in 3 & 6 months?
Volunteer Name: PRINT NAME:
SIGN NAME:
DATE:
BEST PRACTICES
TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE FRG EMAIL COMMUNICATION
FRG MEETING TOPIC GUIDE
TIPS FOR RUNNING AN EFFECTIVE FRG MEETING
SAMPLE FRG MEETING CHECKLIST
SAMPLE FRG MEETING SIGN IN
SAMPLE FRG MEETING EVALUATION FORM
VIDEO TELECONFERENCING GUIDELINES
TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE FRG EMAIL COMMUNICATION
When sending out a mass email put recipients in the “BCC:” field so that they remain anonymous. Use a meaningful and relevant “Subject” line that reflects the content of the Message. Be concise and to the point. Respond and forward on information swiftly – Especially when information is time sensitive. Answer all questions, and pre-empt further questions. Use proper spelling, grammar and punctuation. Avoid writing in CAPITALS. Do not use email to discuss confidential information about Soldiers and Family members. When forwarding an email, unless stated, remove the personal information from the original author and any other information that is not relevant to your audience. Try to quote from the original message when relevant. You can break the quoted message down into paragraphs and comment on them individually to make it clearer. When using an acronym for the first time spell it out i.e. Family Readiness Group (FRG). Only use acronyms if you are positive the recipient is familiar with their meaning. Use emphasis where it is useful to do so. If your email system does not allow bold or italics, a common convention is to use a *star* on either side of the word you want to stress When attaching a document, consider converting it to a PDF format, as everyone can open this type of document. In the body of the email explain any attachments Be careful before “replying all” to a message. Ask yourself— Is it necessary? Proof read your email before pressing send. Include a brief signature on your email messages to help the recipient understand who it is from, especially if you are dealing with someone you do not know very well. Military Etiquette – When emailing Command sign your email with “Best Regards” or “Very Respectfully” for officers (Lieutenant Colonel and above). Always be polite. Terseness can be misinterpreted. Be patient, especially with inexperienced email users.
Deployment Cycle Stage
Recommended Topics
Overview A one day program designed to empower and resource Soldiers and family members to address the effects of combat operational stress and general issues prior to deploying. Invite Loved Ones to learn about the FRG and volunteer opportunities. While it is critical to recruit volunteers, it can be helpful to have a meeting to cover details.
Predeployment
Family Preparation Academy (In lieu of meeting)
Predeployment
Organizing the FRG
Predeployment*
Media awareness
Advise families on how to respond, discuss social networking and OPSEC.
Predeployment*
Personal Safety and Discussion of Family & Single Soldier check list
Predeployment
Effective Communication
Many difficult situations can be avoided by planning ahead - Power of Attorney (POA), acct numbers, doctor, dentist, eye care info, etc. Discussion of positive communication during deployment and the various styles of communication.
Predeployment
Finances & How to read a LES (Leave and Earning Statement)
Predeployment*
Resource Fair
How deployment affects pay, lag in pay, how to read a LES. Families receive pertinent information regarding Tricare, FAC, ESGR, MOS, MFLC, etc.
Suggested Provider/Speaker
BN and unit leadership, FRG, FRSA and various outside provider stations
Unit and FRG Leader, FRSA Unit and FRG Leader. Could also request assistance from FRSA or PAO. Unit and FRG Leadership, local Police
Communication expert or community member. Unit rep who is comfortable explaining a LES and fielding questions. Local FAC and/or service providers
Mobilization Station*
CAO/CNO Process, Wounded Warrior
This topic is best presented after soldiers leave home but before they are in a combat zone. The speaker will discuss the process and provide an overview of their program and hold a Q & A.
Mobilization Station *
“Black-outs” & Communication (CMD vs. FRG updates)
What to expect during a blackout. This is a good opportunity to emphasize that the FRG will not communicate information unless directed by their CMD.
Previously deployed Rear Det Staff
Mobilization Station *
Red Cross/Emergency Leave
Overview of American Red Cross emergency services that help keep military personnel in touch with their families.
Red Cross Staff/Volunteer
Deployment*
Military OneSource (MOS)
Overview of website and resources available to families.
Deployment
Leave/Pass requirements
Deployment*
Coping with deployments
Deployment*
Psychological First Aid
Deployment
Getting through the Holidays
Deployment*
Suicide prevention
Deployment*
Relationship building/ rebuilding
Focus on communication, expectations, problem solving etc. Also, promote Strong Bonds.
Chaplain or MFLC
Family Reintegration Academy (FRA) (In lieu of meeting)
The Family Reintegration Academy prepares family members for their Soldier’s homecoming and informs them what they can do to make the transition go smoothly. Held approximately a month prior to the return of the Soldiers.
BN and unit leadership, FRG, FRSA and various outside provider stations
Deployment
Expectation of soldier during leave Provide recommendations/best practices/ strategies for coping with deployments. Coping with Deployments: Psychological First Aid for Military Families is a training developed specifically to help military family members respond to the stress and strain surrounding the deployment of a loved one. Discuss potential challenges and strategies families can use throughout the holidays. Overview of suicide prevention programs, services.
Casualty Affairs Liaison
MOS Rep or individual who has completed the train the trainer course. Unit rep Local Military Family Life Consultant (MFLC)
Red Cross Staff/Volunteer
Unit and FRG Leader, FRSA, MOS resources Chaplain, VA or DCS Advocacy Rep
TIPS FOR RUNNING AN EFFECTIVE MEETING Before the meeting:
Determine the purpose of the meeting. Are you planning an event? Putting together the newsletter? Providing training or hosting a speaker? What resources will you need? Childcare? Refreshments? Audio-visual equipment? Tables and chairs? What size room? Set the agenda and distribute it prior to the meeting so that everyone will know what to expect. Ask for input if possible before setting the agenda or set at least part of the next meeting’s agenda as a closing activity at each meeting. Include a starting and ending time with the agenda. Prepare any visual aids you will need.
At the meeting
Greet people as they arrive. If the group is small, you can do introductions as people come in. Otherwise, do introductions as the first part of the meeting. Consider nametags if you will have new people or have only met together a few times. Review the agenda and set any ground rules. Encourage discussion and participation. This may mean drawing people out who are not sharing, and tactfully bringing others to a close. Take minutes. Summarize what has been accomplished or resolved for each agenda item. Recognize success and achievement.
After the meeting:
Send out the minutes. Follow up on action items. Start the agenda for the next meeting. Do all of the above in a timely manner.
Special tips for teleconference or virtual meetings:
Always check equipment before every meeting. Send out the agenda early. Have participants log on five to ten minutes before starting the meeting. Avoid background noise. Have participants state their name before speaking. Don’t multi-task. Describe or explain pauses for those who can’t see. Sequence responses in a set order to avoid everyone talking at once.
Sample FRG Meeting Sign In
STEPS FOR UTILIZING VIDEO TELECONFERENCING AT FRG MEETINGS The MN National Guard has many facilities throughout the State equipped with Video Teleconferencing (VTC) capabilities. This is a secure way for families throughout the State to attend their unit’s Family Readiness Group (FRG) meeting without having to travel long distances.
Setting Up a VTC Before the FRG meeting date, FRG Leaders interested in setting up a VTC should contact their Family Readiness Support Assistant (FRSA) or Rear Detachment Staff. Once the locations are chosen, a reservation must be made through the State’s online VTC reservation system a minimum of one week in advance, unless there is an emergency. Please note that VTC capabilities are only available at armories. In order for a VTC to happen, a member of the VTC staff must be in an office at Camp Ripley or Inver Grove Heights, and a member of the armory’s full time staff must be present at each of the VTC location to open and close the building.
Attending a VTC The FRG Leader should have the phone numbers for all of the armory representatives for the locations being used that day. They should also have the State VTC number, 651-268-8874/8990, in case of any technical issues. Once the VTC is scheduled to start, a camera in the room will turn on to start the call. Armory representatives can help with any questions about microphones and remotes. FRGs are expected to follow the armory rules regarding food and beverages and to clean up after themselves.
Cancelling a VTC Occasionally, a VTC satellite location or entire meeting must be cancelled due to low attendance or weather. Please provide family members, armory representatives, and the State VTC office with a minimum notice of 24 hours of this cancelation due to weather or low attendance. If the minimum notice cannot be met and the VTC is still cancelled, please still call the VTC Hotline, 651-268-8990 and the armory representative.
VTC Best Practice Send out reminders/flyers and have family members RSVP a week in advance for the VTC to have an estimate head count of participants. Also, select a FRG team member or family member to be a host/hostess and greet family members as they arrive for the VTC.
MILITARY “101” OVERVIEW & RESOURCES
ARMY BASICS
ARMY RANKS
MILITARY CLOCK
PHONETIC ALPHABET
ARMY BASICS FRG leaders should have a solid understanding of MN National Guard culture and history. Leaders who increase their understanding of military culture and history can more effectively align their support and outreach and strengthen unit level connections.
The National Guard The National Guard is the oldest segment of the Nation’s military. The National Guard became the first citizen–soldier military whose role it was to protect the colonies. National Guard troops are now organized by state and during times of peace, they are under the command of each state’s Governor. National Guard troops respond to natural disasters and can also be called by the President of the United States to support Federal missions.
The Minnesota National Guard The MN National Guard has more than 14,000 Soldiers (Army) and Airmen (Air) serving. Many people are surprised to learn that Minnesota, ranks 26th in overall population but has the fifth largest National Guard Structure in the United States. Take a few minutes to explore the MN National Guard website at http://www.minnesotanationalguard.org to learn more.
Military Terminology The United States Military (Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve) has long been known to have unique language and terminology. Acronyms and terms exist for many of the day to day activities and functions. FRG Leaders may need to understand basic military terminology as it relates to information passed down through Unit Leaders. Explore the following websites for acronyms and terminology:
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/acronym_index.html
http://www.all-acronyms.com/tag/military
Military Rank A ‘Rank” system classifies service members into Officer and Enlisted corps. A service member’s rank is clearly identified on both working and dress uniforms. Rank defines pay grade and job responsibilities. Rank also dictates a ‘chain of command’ that specifies the protocol for decision making and the way individuals address each other. (An example of this is that only Officers are addressed as “Sir” or “Ma’am”). CONTINUE TO THE NEXT PAGE FOR AN ARMY RANK CHART.
MILITARY TIME The military operates off a 24-hour clock, beginning at midnight (which is 0000 hours). See below for the complete time conversion chart. For most daily things, military personnel use local time as a reference. In other words, "report to duty at 0700," would mean you have to be at work at 7:00 AM, local time. When it comes to operational matters (such as communications, training exercises, deployments, ship movements aircraft flights, etc.), the military must often coordinate with bases and personnel located in other time zones. 12:00 AM -- 0000 hours 1:00 AM -- 0100 hours 2:00 AM -- 0200 hours 3:00 AM -- 0300 hours 4:00 AM -- 0400 hours 5:00 AM -- 0500 hours 6:00 AM -- 0600 hours 7:00 AM -- 0700 hours 8:00 AM -- 0800 hours 9:00 AM -- 0900 hours 10:00 AM -- 1000 hours 11:00 AM -- 1100 hours
12:00 PM -- 1200 hours 1:00 PM -- 1300 hours 2:00 PM -- 1400 hours 3:00 PM -- 1500 hours 4:00 PM -- 1600 hours 5:00 PM -- 1700 hours 6:00 PM -- 1800 hours 7:00 PM -- 1900 hours 8:00 PM -- 2000 hours 9:00 PM -- 2100 hours 10:00 PM -- 2200 hours 11:00 PM -- 2300 hours
PHONETIC ALPHABET A phonetic alphabet is a list of words used to identify letters in a message transmitted by radio or telephone. Spoken words from an approved list are substituted for letters. For example, the word "Army" would be "Alfa Romeo Mike Yankee" when spelled in the phonetic alphabet. This practice helps to prevent confusion between similar sounding letters, such as "m" and "n", and to clarify communications that may be garbled during transmission.
A: Alpha
H: Hotel
O: Oscar
V: Victor
B: Bravo
I: India
P: Papa
W: Whiskey
C: Charlie
J: Juliet
Q: Quebec
X: X-Ray
D: Delta
K: Kilo
R: Romeo
Y: Yankee
E: Echo
L: Lima
S: Sierra
Z: Zulu
F: Foxtrot
M: Mike
T: Tango
G: Golf
N: November
U: Uniform
BRIGADE OVERVIEW & RESOURCES
1ST ARMORED BRIGADE COMBAT TEAM HISTORY & MISSION
SOCIAL MEDIA RESOURCES
UNIT HISTORY 1ST ARMORED BRIGADE COMBAT TEAM 34TH RED BULL INFANTRY DIVISION The 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 34th Infantry Division (1/34th ABCT) is an Army National Guard brigade headquartered in Bloomington, Minnesota. The 1/34th ABCT is capable of supporting the U.S. Army with a trained and ready combat force and supports the State of Minnesota with troops capable of assisting civil authorities in times of emergency. The 1/34th ABCT's task organization looks much different moving into training year 2015 (TY15). In the new fiscal year (October 1, 2014), 1/34th ABCT added a third artillery battery to the 1-125th FA and stood up a Brigade Engineer Battalion (BEB) which replaced the Brigade Special Troops Battalion (BSTB). Additionally, the 1st Battalion, 145th Armor Regiment (1-145 AR) from the Ohio Army National Guard is in an aligned for training relationship with the 1/34th ABCT. The changes with the 1/34th ABCT stem from the Army's 2020 Force Structure Realignment announced in June 2013 by the Chief of Staff of the Army. The new armored brigade structure consists of seven battalions: three combined arms, one cavalry (RSTA), one artillery battalion, one engineer battalion and one brigade support battalion. The armored brigade combat team is the largest brigade combat team formation with more than 5,000 Soldiers assigned. Eight major units now make up the 1/34th ABCT: Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC) headquartered in Bloomington; 334th Brigade Engineer Battalion (334 BEB) headquartered in Bloomington; 1/34th Brigade Support Battalion (1/34th BSB) headquartered at Camp Ripley; 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment (1-194 AR CAB) headquartered in Brainerd; 1st Squadron, 94th Cavalry (1-94 CAV) headquartered in Duluth; 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery (1125 FA) headquartered in New Ulm; 2nd Combined Arms Battalion, 136th Infantry (2-136 IN CAB) headquartered in Moorhead and 1st Battalion, 145th Armor Regiment (1-145 AR CAB) from the Ohio National Guard which is in an aligned for training relationship with the 1/34th ABCT. The new reorganization has been described as one of the Army's largest organizational changes since World War II. The end state for this Army transformation is to have modular combat brigades that are self-contained combined arms formations. There are three types of BCTs in today's modular Army; Armored Brigade Combat Teams (ABCTs), Infantry Brigade Combat Teams (IBCTs which includes light, mountain, air assault and airborne) and Stryker Brigade Combat Teams (SBCTs). The 1/34th ABCT will expand the brigade's fires capability by adding a third battery to the existing 1125 FA fires battalion. The addition of the BEB will give the 1/34th ABCT more engineer capabilities, including two engineer companies and a battalion-level staff capable of engineer planning and command and control. The BEB will also be home to the 1/34th ABCT's military intelligence and signal companies. The aligned for training relationship with the 1-145 AR will increase the brigade's combat power and maneuver capability by providing a third combined arms battalion. The 1/34th ABCT is one of seven Army National Guard Armored Brigade Combat Teams prepared to deploy and conduct decisive action and sustainable land operations.
UNIT HISTORY 1ST ARMORED BRIGADE COMBAT TEAM 34TH RED BULL INFANTRY DIVISION 2013 Accomplishments In 2013, the Bloomington-based brigade continued its reset operations after returning from deployment in 2012. The unit focused heavily on personnel readiness while simultaneously improving individual and collective skill proficiency. The brigade is one of seven Army National Guard Armored Brigade Combat Teams. In 2013, Soldiers began new equipment fielding of the M2A2 and M3A2 ODS SA (Operation Desert StormSituational Awareness) Bradley Fighting Vehicle as well as the M3A3 Bradley Cavalry Fighting Vehicles, M1117 Armored Security Vehicles and Assault Breacher Vehicles. The brigade celebrated its heritage this year by honoring the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg and is preparing to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the construction of the New Ulm Armory in 2014. 2014 Objectives As the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team transforms into the Army's 2020 Force Structure Realignment, the brigade and its units stand ready to provide personnel and equipment in support of federal, state and community missions in order to assist and/or protect the citizens of Minnesota and the United States. The 1/34th ABCT is comprised of capable men and women, many of whom have served together during one or more deployments. The brigade recognizes the great cohesion and camaraderie that results from these shared experiences which greatly contribute to our success at home and abroad. The brigade has also learned a number of important lessons through deployments over the past 13 years. One of the most important being the invaluable support and assistance that our military members have and continue to receive from their families, employers, colleges and universities, neighbors and the generous citizens of Minnesota. The next two years will be an exciting time for 1st Brigade. Its Soldiers are about to embark on the best training opportunities that the Army has to offer with the Brigade Warfighter Exercise, an XCTC rotation and a National Training Center rotation.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTERS (FAC) OVERVIEW
FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTERS (FAC) MAP
STATE YOUTH PROGRAMS
MILITARY ONESOURCE
AMERICAN RED CROSS
TRICARE
ONLINE RESOURCES
When a military family experiences a crisis, the American Red Cross is there to help. Wherever their military service takes them, service members can rest assured that the Red Cross will deliver notification of an emergency such as the death or serious illness of an immediate family member, as well as the good news of the birth of a service member's child or grandchild. Twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year, the Red Cross relays urgent messages containing accurate, factual, complete and verified descriptions of the emergency to service members stationed anywhere in the world, including on ships at sea and at embassies and remote locations. Even if the service member receives an email or phone call from home, Red Cross-verified information assists the member and his/her commanding officers with making a decision regarding emergency leave. Knowing in advance that communication links, access to financial assistance and information and referral will be available in an emergency brings peace of mind to service members and to the families from whom they are separated. The American Red Cross Emergency Communications Center is available to help 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call (877) 272-7337 (toll-free) if you are currently, or if you are calling about:
Anyone on active duty in the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force or Coast Guard
A Cadet or midshipman at a service academy; ROTC cadet on orders for training
An activated member of the Guard and Reserve of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces An immediate family member or dependent of anyone in the above categories
A civilian employed by or under contract to the Department of Defense and stationed outside the Continental United States and any family residing with them at that location A military retiree or the retiree’s spouse or widow(er) A Merchant Marine aboard a U.S. Naval Ship
When calling the Red Cross, be prepared to provide as much of the following information about the Service Member as is known:
Full legal name Rank/rating Branch of service (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard) Social Security number Date of birth Military unit address Information about the deployed unit and home base unit (for deployed service members only)
ONLINE RESOURCES
ARMY / NATIONAL GUARD CARE PACKAGES / MAIL CHILDREN COMMUNICATION CULTURAL RESOURCES DEPLOYMENT DISCOUNTS EDUCATION EMPLOYMENT FRG (ARMY ONE SOURCE) ONLINE TRAINING HEALTH / MENTAL HEALTH LEGAL ISSUES / ASSISTANCE MARRIAGES / RELATIONSHIPS PARENTS OF SOLDIERS PET CARE SOCIAL NETWORKING SPOUSES & SIGNIFICANT OTHERS STRESS MANAGEMENT
FAMILY READINESS ONLINE RESOURCES ARMY / NATIONAL GUARD www.minnesotanationalguard.com www.armyonesource.com www.militaryonesource.mil CARE PACKAGES / MAIL www.operationgratitude.com/ www.usps.com/shippingdates/welcome.htm CHILDREN After Deployment Adaptive Parenting Tools, U of MN, www.cehd.umn.edu/fsos/adapt www.militarykids.org www.mnchildcare.org www.ausa.org/family www.mdva.state.mn.us/child www.guardfamilyyouth.org www.operationwearehere.com/Children.html COMMUNICATION www.skype.com www.magicjack.com www.google.com/voice www.yahoomessenger.com CULTURAL RESOURCES Culture Gram: www.militaryonesource.mil  Free access through the DoD MWR Library Tab on the side of page The World Fact Book: www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook DEPLOYMENT Focus on Family: Know Before you Go: www.defense.gov/home/ features/2010/0610_knowbefore www.ausa.org/resources/familyprograms/Pages/default.aspx www.operationwearehere.com/MilitaryLifeDeployment.html www.afterdeployment.org
FAMILY READINESS ONLINE RESOURCES DISCOUNTS Local Events and Deals: www.beyondtheyellowribbon.org/events-a-deals Store Discounts with ID: www.military.com/discounts/category EDUCATION Scholarship and programs: www.education4military.com Spouse Career Center: www.militaryonesource.mil Military Child Education Coalition: www.militarychild.org Service Members Education/GI Bill: www.gibill.va.gov
EMPLOYMENT Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve: www.esgr.org Family Medical Leave Act: www.dol.gov/whd/fmla Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development: www.positivelyminnesota.com Work Force Centers: www.positivelyminnesota.com/JobSeekers/WorkForce Centers FRG ONLINE TRAINING (OPTIONAL) Army One Source: www.myarmyonesource.com Online Training: 3 levels of Army Family Team Building (AFTB) and the Getting Involved Module for FRG Leader Training
HEALTH / MENTAL HEALTH TriCare: Military Health Care Program: www.tricare.mil Military Pathways: Free Mental Health Screening: www.militarymentalhealth.org Telephonic Counseling 24/7 and other resources www.militaryonesource.mil Exceptional Family member Program: Special services for disabilities: www.armyonesource LEGAL ISSUES / ASSISTANCE Legal Assistance – Refer to your Family Assistance Center www.minnesotanationalguard.org/soldiers and airmen/legal.php www.military.com/benefits/content/military-legal-matters
FAMILY READINESS ONLINE RESOURCES MARRIAGE AND RELATIONSHIPS Strong Bonds: Marriage Retreats: www.strongbonds.org www.militaryonesource.com www.5lovelanguages.com PARENTS OF SOLDIERS www.bluestarmoms.org www.operationwearehere.com/Parents.html PET CARE www.netpets.org/militarypet/foster.php (recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense) www.guardianangelsforsoldierspet.org
SOCIAL NETWORKING www.facebook.com www.linkdin.com www.twitter.com www.picassa.com www.flickr.com SPOUSES & SIGNIFICANT OTHERS Spouses and Significant Others: www.militarysos.com www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil Military Spouse Magazine: www.milspouse.com Military Wives and Women in Uniform: www.cinchouse.com www.nationalmilitaryspousenetwork.org www.armymwr.com/recleisure/promotions/spousesresources.aspx STRESS MANAGEMENT www.hooah4health.com www.militaryonesource.mil www.defense.gov/specials/stressawareness