2014 2015 Makin Island Deployment Handbook by USS Makin Island (LHD 8)

USS MAKIN ISLAND (LHD 8) DEPLOYMENT HANDBOOK 2014 - 2015

Table of Contents Command Support Team Leadership Ombudsman Family Readiness Group

1 1 2

Phone Directory

Deployment Preparation Pre-Deployment Checklist Service Member Service Member with Dependants Emergency Spouse As a Family Single Parent Automobile Checklist Basic Budget (Cash Flow) Form Emotional Cycles of Deployment Finances Budgeting Direct Deposit Navy Cash Wise Credit Management Strengthening Long Distance Relationships Communications With the Ship Operational Security AMCROSS Messages Care Packages Careline Email Internet Website Letters Sailor Phone Miscellaneous Tiger Cruises Return and Reunion

6 6 7 8 8 8 9 10 11 12 13 13 13 14 14 15 17 17 17 18 19 20 20 20 22 22 22

Resources American Red Cross Armed Services YMCA Chaplains / Spiritual Fitness Center Child Care Resource and Referral

25 27 28 29 i

Defense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting System Fleet and Family Support Counseling Services Family Justice Center Fleet & Family Support Center Identification Card Lab Military Family Housing Office / Lincoln Military Housing Military OneSource Military Outreach Ministries Morale, Welfare and Recreation Naval Legal Service Office Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society New Parent Support Operation Homefront Sexual Assault Prevention and Response TRICARE / TriWest TRICARE Dental Program / MetLife TRICARE Pharmacy Military Pharmacy Mail Order Pharmacy Retail Network Pharmacy Non-Network Pharmacy United Service Organizations United Through ReadingďŁ¨ Women, Infants and Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Supplemental Nutrition Program Youth Programs

29 30 30 31 32 32 34 35 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 43 44 45 45 46 47 48 49

COMMAND SUPPORT TEAM Leadership Commanding Officer (CO) Executive Officer (XO)

CAPT Alvin Holsey CAPT Mike Feyedelem

Command Master Chief (CMC) CMC’s email address

CMDCM Thomas Moore CMC@lhd8.navy.mil

Command Ombudsmen FRG Leader

Annie Baker/Michelle Strickland Jamie Wade Robin Weaver

Ship’s Quarter Deck phone number

(619) 556-4141

Ship’s address

USS MAKIN ISLAND (LHD 8) FPO AP 96672-1601

Ship’s website address Ship’s Facebook page Ship’s Twitter page

www.makin-island.navy.mil/ www.facebook.com/USSMAKINISLAND www.twitter.com/USSMakinIsland

Ombudsman An Ombudsman is a spouse of one of the command’s service members who has volunteered and been appointed by the Commanding Officer to serve as an information link between command leadership and the families. Ombudsmen are trained to disseminate information, both up and down the chain of command, including official Department of the Navy and command information (i.e. ship’s schedule, deployment program information, messages sent from the ship, etc.), command climate issues, resources available in the military or civilian community and an understanding of the military lifestyle. They are instrumental in resolving family issues before the issues require extensive command attention. They do not, however, get involved in chain-of-command matters. Each command’s Ombudsman program is shaped largely by the Commanding Officer’s perceived needs of the command. The Ombudsman works under the guidance of the Commanding Officer, who determines the priorities of the program, the roles and relationships of those involved in it, and the type and level of support it will receive. In addition to other responsibilities, the Ombudsman is in charge of maintaining an up-to-date phone tree listing emergency contact information for every service member onboard the ship. This list is only used in times of emergency when immediate contact is required to disseminate information to family members 1

(i.e. in case of an emergency on the ship) or collect information from family members (i.e. an emergency or disaster in the San Diego area) to be reported to the ship. Due to the number of service members onboard the ship, phone tree volunteers assist in making calls when the phone tree has been activated. However, your personal contact information is protected by the Privacy Act of 1974; therefore, the Ombudsman cannot provide contact information to phone tree volunteers without your permission. If you are interested in participating in the shipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s phone tree, contact the Ombudsman and advise her of your interest and authorize her to release your contact information to other family members who will be tasked with phoning you. Each phone tree volunteer has access to a limited number of service memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contact information and all information is held in the strictest confidence. It is incumbent upon the service member and his/her family member to keep the Ombudsman updated on his/her contact information. Additionally, if a family member will be out of the area for an extended period of time during the deployment, he/she is advised to provide the Ombudsman with that information as well. Command Ombudsman

Annie Baker/Michelle Strickland/ Jamie Wade

Phone number

(619) 204-3854 (619) 204-4572

Email address

makinislandombud@yahoo.com

Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/mki.ombudsman

Family Readiness Group Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) are command-sponsored organizations that consist of volunteers such as spouses, family members and significant others of service members onboard the ship. The purpose of an FRG is to plan and conduct social, informational and morale-building activities to enhance family readiness and enable the Navy family to meet the challenges of the military lifestyle. Such activities may include holiday, halfway night and homecoming celebrations, training sessions on deployment and return/reunion issues. FRG meetings and events are the only places where schedule or location information will be disseminated by the Commandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ombudsman, as this information cannot be discussed by phone, email or letter.

FRG Leader

Robin Weaver

Email address

makinislandfrg@yahoo.com 2

Phone Directory Ship & Ombudsman Ombudsman -

(619) 204-3854 (619) 204-4572 (619) 556-4141

Ship’s Quarterdeck Emergencies American Red Cross Child Abuse Hotline Family Advocacy Center Poison Control Center Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) “DOD SAFE HELPLINE”

(800) 951-5600 / (800) 660-4272 (858) 560-2191 (619) 556-8809 (800) 222-1222 (877) 995-5247

Fleet & Family Support Centers Murphy Canyon Naval Base Coronado Naval Base Point Loma Naval Base San Diego

(858) 277-4259 (619) 545-6071 (619) 553-8306 (619) 556-7404

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Naval Base Coronado Naval Air Station North Island Naval Base San Diego

(619) 545-4477 (619) 545-4364 (619) 767-6800

Chaplains Naval Base Coronado Naval Base Point Loma Naval Base San Diego Naval Medical Center

(619) 545-8213 (619) 553-7201 (619) 556-2658 (619) 532-6025

Commissaries Imperial Beach Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Naval Air Station North Island Naval Base San Diego

(619) 437-9478 (858) 577-4516 (619) 545-6560 (619) 556-8657

Exchanges Imperial Beach Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego Naval Air Station North Island Naval Base Coronado Naval Base Point Loma (off base) Naval Base Point Loma (on Sub Base) Naval Base San Diego

(619) 424-2911 (858) 695-7288 (619) 524-4435 (619) 522-7222 (619) 522-7400 (619) 221-1067 (619) 523-1214 (619) 544-2100

Medical Express Scripts Health Benefits Office Naval Medical Center San Diego (Quarterdeck) Outpatient / Primary Care Clinic Appointments Chula Vista Outpatient Clinic Kearney/Clairemont Mesa Outpatient Clinic East County Primary Care Clinic Naval Medical Center San Diego Naval Training Center Outpatient Clinic Pharmacies Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Naval Air Station North Island Naval Base San Diego Naval Medical Center San Diego Naval Training Center TRICARE Dental Program / MetLife TRICARE Mail Order Pharmacy / Express Scripts United HealthCare Military Resources and Assistance Base Information Naval Air Station North Island / Naval Base Coronado Naval Base Point Loma Naval Base San Diego Child Care Resource and Referral Defense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting System Family Advocacy Center ID Card Labs Naval Base San Diego Naval Medical Center San Diego Lincoln Military Housing Military Family Housing Office Military OneSource Morale, Welfare and Recreation (IT&T Tickets) Naval Air Station North Island Naval Base San Diego (Bowling Alley) Naval Base San Diego (near the base theater) Naval Base San Diego (NEX Garden Center) Morale, Welfare and Recreation (Programs) Naval Legal Service Office Navy Lodge (Reservations) New Parent Support Personal Property (Household Goods)

(877) 363-1303 (619) 532-8328 (619) 532-6400 (619) 744-5355 (619) 645-0155 (619) 645-0155 (619) 532-8225 (619) 532-8225 (858) 577-9960 (619) 545-4290 (619) 556-9371 (619) 532-8400 (619) 524-0931 (855) 638-8371 (877) 363-1303 (877) 988-WEST (9378)

(619) 545-1011 (619) 553-1011 (619) 556-1011 (619) 556-8491 / (877) 235-6002 (800) 334-4162 (619) 556-8809 (619) 556-9249 (619) 532-6557 (619) 556-7667 (619) 556-8443 (800) 342-9647 (619) 545-9576 (619) 556-2180 (619) 556-2174 (619) 556-7498 (619) 556-7745 (619) 556-0049 / (619) 556-2211 (800) 628-9466 (619) 767-1786 (619) 556-6683

Youth Programs Bayview Hills Community Center Chesterton Community Center Gateway Recreation Center Hartman Community Center Murphy Canyon Kids Connection Murphy Canyon Youth Center Silver Strand Recreation Center Village at Serra Mesa Recreation Center Community Resources and Assistance American Red Cross (Programs) Armed Services YMCA Murphy Canyon Naval Medical Center Child Support Services Family Justice Center Internal Revenue Service Legal Aid Society Military Outreach Ministries San Diego Office Operation Homefront San Diego Community Colleges Sexual Assault Victim Intervention (SAPR) Naval Base San Diego SAPR Hotline USO Airport Center Downtown Center United Through ReadingďŁ¨ Women, Infants and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program (WIC)

(619) 267-2018 (858) 268-2252 (619) 225-5628 (858) 270-2060 (619) 268-2233 (858) 268-2828 (619) 435-5056 (858) 571-3853

(858) 309-1200 (858) 751-5755 (619) 532-8156 (619) 236-7600 (619) 533-3592 (800) 829-1040 1 (877) LEGAL AID (534-2524) (619) 461-4164 (855) 282-0960 (619) 584-6500 (877) 995-5247 (619) 279-2904 (619) 296-3192 (619) 235-6503 (858) 481-7323 (888) 942-9675

DEPLOYMENT PREPARATION Planning for deployment is a key element in the readiness of both the service member and family. Trying to decide what needs to be done can be overwhelming and stressful. It is impossible to plan for every scenario that may arise during the deployment, but you can prepare for the most common situations. The checklist below, which is divided into areas: items that the service member should accomplish, items that the spouse should accomplish, and items that the family should accomplish together, will help you cover most of the important details.

Pre-Deployment Checklist Service Member I have updated my Page 2. I have updated my SGLI beneficiary information. I have completed my will. I have obtained a passport. (A passport is required to regain access to the U.S. during deployment. Plan ahead as it can take up to 12 weeks for delivery). I have updated my seabag (uniforms, PT gear, etc). I have ensured my family members are on the ombudsman’s phone tree (for contact in case of emergency), email list, newsletter list as well as the FRG email list. I have a calendar with birthdays, anniversaries and holidays noted for the time deployed. I have informed my family (spouse, siblings, parents, etc.) how to contact me in case of emergency (American Red Cross and ombudsman). I have informed my family of the ombudsman’s name and phone number. Automobiles (see also “Automobile Checklist”, page 44). I know my car registration will not expire while deployed or I have made arrangements for renewal. I have made arrangements for auto storage, if necessary. I have made arrangements for insurance payments to be made. I know the names, addresses and phone numbers of friends and family. I have informed my friends and family of my rate/rank and official mailing and email addresses. I have planned civilian clothes based on area and time of year (and liberty restrictions on clothing).

Service Member with Dependents (in addition to the “Service Member” section) I have updated the DEERS status for each person on my Page 2. I have completed powers of attorney and my spouse has the original(s). I have a will and my spouse has a copy. I have a copy of my spouse’s will. I have ensured all my dependents (age 10 and over) have a valid military ID card, valid through two months after deployment. I have arranged for military ID cards for any child who will turn 10 before I return. If my spouse is pregnant, I have explained how to enroll our child in DEERS. I have ensured my spouse knows where to go for legal assistance (Navy Legal Service Office, etc.). I have ensured my spouse knows where all of our important documents (wills, powers of attorney, marriage certificate, car title, insurance papers, etc.) are located. I have ensured my spouse knows all of my important information (social security number, rate/rank, command name and address, etc.). I know my spouse’s important information. I have made arrangements for someone to care for my children should my spouse be hospitalized or incapacitated and these arrangements are in writing and are notarized. I have enrolled my family in TRICARE and they have primary care managers. I have enrolled my family in TRICARE Dental Plan (United Concordia). I have ensured my spouse knows where to go for medical and dental care. I know the names, addresses and phone numbers of my spouse’s family and friends. I have updated my address book and purchased cards for upcoming birthdays and holidays (i.e. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Valentine’s, Easter, anniversary, etc.). Financial Preparation I have set up an allotment going to my spouse or joint account. I have ensured my spouse understands the checkbook, budget and bill payments. I have set up allotments for monthly recurring bills such as car or loan payments. I have ensured my spouse knows whom to contact in case of financial hardship (Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, etc.). I have completed and turned-in the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society pre-authorization form. Home Preparation I have renter’s insurance (even in military housing) to cover liability/loss. I have ensured my spouse will take care of lawn maintenance or we have made other arrangements. I have performed routine maintenance on the car.

Emergency I have ensured my family (spouse, parents, etc.) knows how to contact me in case of emergency (American Red Cross and ombudsman). I have signed up for America’s Most Prepared Military Community (AMPMC) and understand disaster preparedness planning.

Spouse I know my spouse’s mailing and email addresses. I have all necessary powers of attorney and a copy of my spouse’s will. I have a will and my spouse has a copy. I have a working understanding of our checkbook, budget and bills. I know where all of our important documents (wills, powers of attorney, marriage certificate, car title, insurance papers, etc.) are located. I know what to do in case I lose my military dependent ID card. I know what to do in case of financial, legal or medical emergencies. I have at least one person locally to call in case of emergency. I have the names, addresses and phone numbers for both of our families. I know my ombudsman’s name and phone number. I know to contact my ombudsman if I leave town in case she has information to relay to me. I understand the role of the ombudsman, Fleet & Family Support Center, American Red Cross and Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and when and how to contact each. I understand the purpose of the Family Readiness Group, know how to contact them and know that I am welcome to join in the planning of and attendance at any and all functions. In case I decide to visit the ship in a foreign port, I have a passport or have applied for one (at least four months in advance). I have made plans for regular maintenance on the car and know what to do in the event of a problem.

As a Family We have discussed with the children where the service member is going, when he/she is expected to come home and why he/she is leaving. We have discussed communications and decided on the frequency of letters, emails, phone calls and care packages. Finances We have created a budget and a savings plan. We have discussed budgeting for the holidays. We have discussed how money will be spent during port visits. Home Preparation We have given our home a security and maintenance checkup and there is adequate outside lighting for security and safety. 8

Our home is in good repair. The furnace and air conditioner are clean, the hot water heater, as well all kitchen appliances, refrigerator, freezer, washer and dryer are working properly. We all know where the fuse box or circuit breaker box is located and when and how to flip a breaker. We have checked all smoke detectors and added fresh batteries where necessary. We all know where the gas and water shutoff valves are located and how to close them. We all know what to do and who to call in case of a gas leak. We have written down the contact information for any household problems. We have updated our rental/lease contracts. We have discussed disaster preparedness (supplies and things to do) and have a plan.

Single Parent I have updated my Family Care Plan including the primary and alternate care provider for my child(ren). I have ensured my child(ren)’s guardian has a power of attorney. I have updated the DEERS status for my child(ren). I have completed applicable portions of the “Service Members with Dependents” section of this checklist. I have instructed my child(ren)’s guardian on how to access military medical services (such as Naval Medical Center San Diego, TRICARE, etc.) for my child(ren). I have instructed my child(ren)’s guardian on how to contact me in case of emergency.

Automobile Checklist Check operation of: Lights Horn Power steering Brakes Windshield wipers Check condition of: Hoses Tires Battery cables Air filter Check level of: Power steering fluid Battery fluid Windshield washer fluid Transmission fluid Radiator fluid Oil Check to see if these need to be done: Tune-up Front end alignment Oil and filter change Tire rotation Ensure that your spouse knows how to: Check oil level Check tire air pressure Change a tire Ensure the following: License plates/registrations will not expire during deployment (or plan in place)

Basic Budget (Cash Flow) INCOMING Salary 1 Salary 2 Bonus Gifts Other Other Other

MONTHLY $

Total Income Total Debits Monthly cash flow

$ -$

OUTGOING Savings Rent/Mortgage Home insurance Electricity Water Gas Phone Trash Cable Internet Food – groceries Food – restaurants Car payment Car payment Gas and oil Repairs and tires Car insurance License and taxes Clothing Medical/Health Life insurance Child care Toiletries Cosmetics Hair care School tuition School supplies Subscriptions Gifts Other Entertainment Credit card Credit card Credit card Gas card Dept store card Loan Other Sailor’s monthly allotment Sailor’s liberty port allotment

Total Debits

A good rule of thumb for savings is 5-10% of your income.

MONTHLY $

Emotional Cycles of Deployment Whether you are new to deployments or a veteran of many, you may not realize that others are feeling the same as you. The following emotional phases are common as you prepare for and progress through the deployment. As you will see, you are not alone! Pre-Deployment Phase (6 to 8 weeks prior to deployment). Feelings in this stage may include fear, anger, denial, resentment, excitement and guilt. Common thoughts include "What will I do without him/her?", "I can't believe he/she is actually leaving me!", "How in the world will I cope with the kids?" and "I wish the ship would leave so I could get on with my life!" Reactions during this phase may vary between honeymoon-like behavior to severe arguments. Deployment Phase (during the deployment). Feelings in this stage may include relief, anxiety, enthusiasm, pride and sense of abandonment. Thoughts associated with these feelings include "Now I can get on with my life!", "He left me...he actually left me!", "What if something happens that I can't handle?" and "I'm handling things so much better than I thought I would!" Reactions during this phase may include a change in schedule (eating and sleeping habits), intense busyness, establishing routine and being independent. Reunion Phase (1 to 6 weeks prior to reunion). Feelings in this stage may include anxiety, excitement, guilt, fear and elation. Thoughts associated with this phase may include "Oh no, I didn't accomplish everything I needed to!", "Hey, I'm managing just fine without him/her!", "I can't wait to see him/her!" or "I wonder if he/she still loves me". All of these feelings and thoughts are normal. Reactions during this phase may include home improvement (cleaning, decorating, etc.) and increased focus on personal appearance (new hairstyle, shopping for a new outfit or lingerie, etc.). Post-Deployment Phase (1 to 6 weeks following reunion). Feelings in this stage may include euphoria, resentment and role confusion. Although this is an exciting and happy time for most couples, it is often the most difficult period they face. The service member may feel displaced and no longer needed in the day-to-day functioning of the family. The spouse may feel resentful when the service member attempts to take charge of an activity (finances, discipline, parenting). While they are reestablishing intimacy, they are also renegotiating their relationship and redefining roles. Each of you will react to separation differently. Intensity of feelings varies and normal ups and downs will occur regularly during separation. If you are having problems coping with the separation or feel overwhelmed, there are both civilian and military resources than can be of assistance to you. source: military.com

Finances How are the family’s finance? Will there be sufficient income to cover expenses? What are our payments, to whom, and for how much? These questions and others will be increasingly important to you when one partner is deployed. Careful planning goes a long way in reducing stress and anxiety. Family budgets are not always thoroughly planned regarding how money will be spent at home or by the service member. A sound plan can avoid the pitfalls of excess spending by both the family at home and the service member at sea. Start by determining where your family stands financially – create a budget. Some key documents you will need to establish your budget are your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) and the most recent copies of your bills (rent, electric/gas, cable, phone, credit cards, car payment, etc.).

Budgeting Prepare a simple budget beginning a few months before deployment and continuing through the months after homecoming. Using the “Basic Budget (Cash Flow)” form (see page 45) should help you get a realistic picture of how much is being spent and how much should be in savings after deployment. If you need to vary from your budget during deployment, you and your spouse should communicate the reasons to each other when it happens to avoid misunderstandings later. When preparing your budget, remember to include periodic expenses such as a new baby, holidays, insurance and planned car maintenance. Basic budgeting classes are available to no cost at Fleet & Family Support Center. When budgeting for the holidays, remember to include money for gifts, wrapping paper, decorations, food and baking supplies, postage, cards, stamps, film and developing, travel and entertaining. Having an accurate and thoroughly-planned budget is the key to financial success and a stress-free deployment. Plan and execute your budget for success. Navy and Marine Corps Relief is a great place to find help with your budget.

Direct Deposit On the first and fifteenth of every month, the service member’s paycheck is deposited electronically into his/her bank or credit union. If a problem arises with the deposit or with an allotment, contact the service member as soon as possible. Keep in mind that resolution will not be immediate and will depend upon the ship’s ability to receive email transmissions as well as research and resolve the problem. Personal Support Detachment (PSD) will only be able to assist you if you have a power of attorney from the service member that 13

SPECIFICALLY grants you permission to deal with pay issues – and they will only do so in person. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you have your service member deal with any such issues. If failure to receive a deposit or allotment creates a financial emergency, contact Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society or American Red Cross.

Navy Cash The ship uses the Navy Cash program, which means we do not exchange currency onboard the ship. All transactions are handled electronically. Service members carry a card that allows them to transfer money from a checking account at home to their Navy Cash card. They can then use the card to make purchases in the ship’s store. Make sure you have a good method to communicate the transfer of funds in order to keep your checking account balanced. During port visits the best way for service members to get cash is to use their bank or credit union ATM card to withdraw cash or currency of the host country. The ship will only provide limited access to cash.

Wise Credit Management Consumer credit can be a valuable tool – if used wisely. But lack of credit knowledge and experience, or its abuse, can quickly get you into trouble. Whether financing a major purchase such as a car or home, or choosing and using a credit card, you want to get the most for the least dollar amount. So shop around. When comparing one credit card or loan to another, be sure to compare the TOTAL cost of borrowing that money. Stop and think – decide before you buy whether or not the purchase is worth the price PLUS the cost of the credit. Credit cards should not be used to live beyond your means – the bills will eventually come due. It is so easy to “charge it”, but you may be shocked when the bills arrive. To avoid such unwelcome surprises, here are several steps you can take: • • • • • • •

Before deployment, agree who will use which credit card, what the credit limit will be and who will make the payments. Keep a running total of the amounts you charge and do not go over the agreed upon limits. Carry only the credit cards you will need for a particular buying trip. If you do not need anything, stay out of the stores. Do not shop when depressed or stressed. Skip over tempting ads, throw away catalogs, special flyers, etc. Curb impulse purchases – look, admire, but do not buy. 14

Strengthening Long Distance Relationships Building and maintaining strong, healthy relationships can be difficult when you are away from one another for long periods – but it is critical to a lasting relationship. So start now, before the deployment, to work on your important relationships. There are many organizations and websites that offer ideas to help you and your loved ones establish, maintain and strengthen your bonds. The information below is from one such website, www.longdistancecouples.com. Some ideas to try before the deployment include: • • • • • • • •

Finish the “honey-do” list. Change the computer screen saver to a loving message. Write short notes on 3x5 cards before you leave. Hide them all over the house for your partner to find after you have gone. Block out a 24-hour period of time for just the two of you. Have a calendar made with the months of the deployment that has pictures featuring the two of you. Share with your partner some of your goals for the next five years. Discuss things you’d like to save for in the future. Buy her a teddy bear that when squeezed will repeat a personalized message in your voice.

If you have a child, the following ideas can assist him/her with the separation: • • • • • • • • • •

Share your feelings about deployment. Tour the ship. Discuss ways to keep in touch. Plan a special activity with your child before the deployment. Swap an important personal belonging with your child for each of you to keep during deployment. Read books to your child with United Through Reading. Assign a family historian at home to keep a scrapbook of activities and events to share with the deployed parent upon return. Keep a journal. Use calendars to record special thoughts or events and track time. Send mail to each child individually.

Some ideas to try during the deployment include: •

In every letter you write, include a section where you share one memory. The following are a few suggestions: • Favorite vacation • First car • Cities you have visited • Best friend growing up 15

• • • • • • •

• Athletic achievements • Road trips • First apartment • First date together • Best weekend together • Best vacation together Email photos to each other on a consistent basis. Send care packages to each other. Have a favorite photograph of the two of you made into a jigsaw puzzle. Send a few pieces with each letter. Send each other a list of seven things you would like to do when you reunite. Plan to do them when you return. Send a music CD of his/her favorite artist. Every night for a week write down five things you appreciate about him/her. By the end of the week you will have 35 things. Send it in a romantic card. Write a monthly thank you letter to him/her.

Some ideas to try following the deployment include: • • • • • • • •

Try not to have unrealistic expectations about your reunion. Have his/her favorite meal ready when he/she returns home. Go out of your way to recognize any of his/her efforts in making your homecoming a special one. Schedule together what you want or need to do your first week home. Try to only have relaxing activities planned for the first 24 hours back. Do not forget to do daily activities to strengthen your relationship when you are home. Make plans to attend a relationship enhancement class together. Increase the frequency of how often you tell him/her how much you appreciate all the things he/she does for you.

Communications With the Ship Operational Security Discussion of the ship’s schedule, location or mission can put the ship and crew at risk. Never discuss such information on the phone, via email or mail, or in a public place as this could compromise our mission and safety.

AMCROSS Messages AMCROSS messages are used to officially notify a service member of a birth, death, illness or family emergency (i.e. breakdown in child care or child care emergency). To send an AMCROSS message, contact American Red Cross (ARC) and provide them with the following information on the service member: • • • • •

Rate/rank and full name (i.e. GSM1 Jane Doe) Date of birth Branch of service Social security number Command address USS SAN DIEGO (LPD 22), FPO AP 96678-1704)

In case of a death, you must provide: • • •

Name of decedent Relationship to service member Name and phone number of funeral home, coroner, etc.

In case of an illness, you must provide: • • •

Name of family member Relationship to service member Name and phone number of attending physician

Additionally you must advise the physician that you are sending an AMCROSS message and that you grant them permission to discuss the patient’s information with the ARC representative. Some physicians may require a signed release before they will release any information.

In case of a breakdown in child care or child care emergency, you must provide: • • • •

Name and phone number of guardian who was to be providing child care Name and phone number of person currently providing child care Name and phone number of case worker (if Child Protective Services is involved) Case number (if Child Protective Services is involved)

To send an AMCROSS message, contact ARC as follows: Nationwide

(800) 951-5600 or (800) 660-4272

It is also recommended that you contact the ombudsman as she may be able to advise the ship that an AMCROSS message is forthcoming.

Care Packages Care packages can be as fun to make as they are to receive and are huge morale-builders during deployment. Here are a few helpful tips to remember when sending a care package: • • • • • • •

Do not send anything perishable. No refrigeration is available to store the items and temperatures during transit can reach over 100°F. Delivery usually takes at least two to three weeks, but can take as long as six to eight weeks. So plan accordingly if you want your package to arrive in time for a special occasion. Pack everything snugly and cushion when needed. Distribute weight evenly so items do not shift in transit. Consider using packing materials such as popcorn or newspaper. Wrap the package carefully, using reinforced tape, not string. Place an extra address card inside the package before sealing in case it is damaged or the address become unreadable. Do not send aerosols, fireworks or liquor.

Address packages as follows: Rate and Full Name of Sailor (i.e. SN John D. Doe) USS Makin Island (LHD 8) Dept/Div (i.e. OPERATIONS/Deck Division) FPO AP 96672-1601 Customs forms must be filled out when sending packages to a fleet post office (FPO) address. These forms are available at the post office. When addressing packages or letters, print clearly, using block letters. Send packages via first class mail or a less expensive (and slower) method. Do not waste money on 18

expedited services. Once mail is delivered to the fleet post office, delivery to the ship is made by available military resources. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers free packing materials to families of military members deployed overseas. Supplies can be obtained by calling USPS at (800) 610-8734 and requesting “The Military Kit”.

Email All service members are provided a ship’s email account that can be used as long as the service member abides by the ship’s internet policies. In order to communicate with a service member via email, he/she must provide you with his/her email address. Understand that while deployed, email is not “instant” communication. Satellite coverage restrictions and operational requirements may prohibit the flow of communications. Transmission of your email may be delayed by higher priority electronic transmissions. These delays can be as short as a few minutes or as long as several days. Additionally, due to operational necessity, email is sometimes shut down for periods of time ranging from hours to days. So do not panic if you do not hear from your service member for many days. Chances are it is due to operational necessity. Also keep in mind that the larger the file you send, the slower the transmission. Limit the number of attachments (particularly large photo files) that you send. The bandwidth we have available to transmit email is relatively small when compared to commercial internet/email service providers. Do not ask questions about the where the ship is or what they are doing. The ship’s system monitors all communications for such information. Discussing this type of information will jeopardize email access for your service member and/or the ship. It is best not to inform your service member of the death of a close family member via email. The best way to do this is via an AMCROSS message. By using this system, the service member is informed in a more personal setting where he/she will have time to process the information. While it may seem quicker to send an email, it is usually not the best choice. If you do not have your own email access, local libraries, USO or Fleet & Family Support Centers can provide access.

Internet Website The ship’s website is periodically updated to provide information about the ship. Keep in mind, however, that security concerns preclude some information (i.e. schedule, future locations, upcoming port visits, etc.) from ever being included on the website. The ombudsman is your best source for this type of information, which she will provide at monthly FRG meetings. Ship’s website address Ship’s Facebook page Ship’s Twitter page

www.makin-island.navy.mil www.facebook.com/USSMAKINISLAND www.twitter.com/USSMakinIsland

Letters The importance of correspondence between a deployed service member and his/her loved ones cannot be overemphasized. Letters and emails may be the most important morale-building factor during this time of separation. No news is perceived as bad news, so write often. Mail service on and off ships is irregular. At best, first class mail can take 7 to 10 days to arrive. Parcel post and second class mail can take up to a month. Therefore, plan accordingly when mailing things you would like to arrive around a specific date. As discussed in the section regarding email, agree upon a plan before the deployment for how each of you would like to handle bad news so that you minimize the unnecessary stress and frustration caused by your service member’s inability to help or resolve the issue. Ship’s address: Rate and Full Name of Sailor (i.e. SN John D. Doe) Dept/Div (i.e. OPERATIONS / OI Division) USS Makin Island (LHD 8) FPO AP 96672-1601

Sailor Phone The ship is equipped with a commercial telephone system (“Sailor Phone”) for use by the crew. The system can only be used for outgoing calls and is usable worldwide. Sailor Phone is accessed using an AT&T Global Prepaid Phone Card on one of the special phones installed on the ship. Be aware that there are only a limited number of Sailor Phones available and they are shared by the entire crew. Additionally, time available for use is dependant upon connectivity and our shared phone lines with other ships in our CSG. Service members can purchase AT&T Global Prepaid Phone Cards in the ship’s store. Be aware of the costs associated with overseas phone usage as it can be very expensive. 20

Currently there is a program, Operation Uplink, available that provides phone cards, free of charge, to deployed military personnel as a way to help keep them in touch with their families and loved ones. Just complete the online form (at the website listed below) and a phone card will be sent to your service member. The following rules apply: • • •

Phone cards can only be sent to a military address. Only one card request per service member is honored in any 60-day time period. Due to the tremendous demand, a card may take four to six weeks to arrive.

They can be accessed online at www.vfw.org/NMS.

Miscellaneous Tiger Cruises A Tiger Cruise is a very special program that allows service members to bring family members onboard during an underway period to show them the ship and their shipboard duties. If this program becomes available during our return trip, information will be provided by your service member. Here are a few of the restrictions associated with the program: • • • •

Tiger Cruise guests (Tigers) are responsible for expenses incurred for transportation to the city of embarkation and for expenses incurred while awaiting the ship. The minimum age of guests is eight years old (may require an escort for the travel portion to the city of embarkation). Each Tiger must clear medical screening due to the physically demanding shipboard environment and limited medical facilities. Spouses and significant others are not allowed.

Additionally, the U.S. Government will not accept responsibility for costs incurred by a Tiger in the event that a scheduled Tiger Cruise is canceled or rescheduled for any reason.

Return and Reunion Return and reunion time can be a very exciting, yet stressful period for both the families at home and the service members at sea. Each person experiences a myriad of emotions and stresses when preparing for the reunion and for reintegration of the family. Tips for reunions: •

•

Start planning early. Who do you want to be a part of the celebration? Include your children in homecoming plans such as decorating and planning activities. Rereading letters from your spouse can assist you as you begin to prepare for the reunion. If homecoming day is also a duty day, plan to make it as special as possible anyway. Have dinner together and talk about your homecoming plans for the next day.

Tips for homecoming day: •

Be realistic. Perfect reunion fantasies are just that – fantasies.

• • • •

Fatigue is a common homecoming reaction for everyone after all of the preparations for the reunion. Stay flexible. Keep planned activities to a minimum to avoid unnecessary stress. Take time to get to know one another again. Intimacy is emotional as well as physical.

Tips for the spouse at home: •

As a couple: • • • • •

•

Life at sea is very structured. Your spouse may want to rest for a while. Go easy on planned activities for a few days. Negotiate family rules and responsibilities during the days after your reunion. Your spouse may have stories to tell about overseas ports. Realize that while port visits can be a highlight, they are a very small part of deployments. Life at sea can be difficult and challenging. Be open. You have a lot of catching up to do. Be careful not to get caught in the “who had it worse” game.

As a parent: • • •

Plan family time. Encourage your family to get reacquainted with one another. Go slowly. Remember that your spouse has not been around energetic children for many months. Be sensitive. The returning parent may feel like an outsider. Encourage kids to include them in discussions, requests and problem solving.

Tips for the returning spouse: •

As a couple: • • • •

Take it easy. Enjoy getting reacquainted with your spouse. Remember you have both changed during your months apart. Your spouse has had total responsibility for many months and may be a bit rusty at cooperation. Be patient. Negotiate your areas of responsibility. Things may never be exactly the same as they were before the deployment. Your spouse’s independence has grown during your time away. Keep in mind that you are still needed, but more importantly, you are wanted at home.

•

As a parent: • • • •

Enjoy being an honored guest at home for a while. Find out what has changed and how it has worked before jumping in. Take time getting reacquainted with each of your children individually. Expect and accept that your children have changed. Express an interest in your children’s activities and in what is important to them. Relax and enjoy yourself! Have a wonderful homecoming.

Fleet & Family Support Center routinely visits the ship during its transit home to offer return and reunion workshops to service members. Listed below are some common workshops that are offered: • • • • • • • • • •

Reunion / Returning to Intimacy Stress Management Anger Management New Parent Returning to Children / Single Parents Managing Life’s Challenges Single Sailor Homeward Bound Consumer Awareness Car Buying Savings and Investment

Additionally, they will also provide appropriate return and reunion workshops for family members. If you are interested in one of the return and reunion workshops, attend the FRG meeting and request it be scheduled.

RESOURCES These are just some of the resources available to service members and their families. Contact the resource directly to get full details about the services they provide. Additionally, your command’s Ombudsman is an excellent source for additional resources.

The American Red Cross (ARC) assists service members and their families in times of peace and conflict. ARC works closely with the military services to provide programs relating to the health, welfare, recreation and morale of military personnel and their families. ARC services are provided by paid and volunteer staff at offices on military bases and in civilian communities through local ARC chapters. Services include the following: • • • • • •

Emergency communications (“AMCROSS messages”) regarding birth, death, illness or other family emergencies (i.e. breakdown in child care or child care emergency) Health and welfare inquiries Emergency financial assistance Information, referral and advocacy Health and safety courses Volunteer opportunities

Around the clock and around the world, ARC is standing by to help you 24 hours every day. To ensure prompt notification by AMCROSS message, you must provide the following information on the service member: • • • • •

Rate/rank and full name (i.e. FC1 Jane Doe) Date of birth Branch of service Social security number Command address (USS SAN DIEGO (LPD 22) , FPO AP 96678-1704)

In case of a death, you must provide: • •

Name of decedent Relationship to service member 25

•

Name and phone number of funeral home, coroner, etc.

In case of an illness, you must provide: • • •

Name of family member Relationship to service member Name and phone number of attending physician

To send an AMCROSS message, contact ARC as follows: Nationwide

(800) 951-5600 or (800) 660-4272

It is also recommended that you contact the Ombudsman as she may be able to advise the ship that an AMCROSS message is forthcoming. For all other ARC services, they can be reached as follows: San Diego Chapter

(858) 309-1200

ARC can be accessed online at www.sdarc.org (San Diego Chapter) and www.redcross.org (National).

The Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) is a non-profit organization exemplifying the American spirit of caring. The San Diego ASYMCA was established in 1920 with the mission of supporting and enhancing the lives of local active duty service members and their families - serving those who serve America. Today, ASYMCA is the oldest and largest non-profit social services organization in San Diego solely devoted to helping military personnel and their families by providing more than 40 free programs and services that help strengthen young families as they learn to cope with the unique challenges of military life. The focus of ASYMCA is to improve the lives of enlisted service members and their families in mind, body and spirit. Some of the programs include: •

Youth and Community Outreach • Operation Kid Comfort • After School Programs • Mom & Tots Programs • Spouse Support & Craft Groups • Youth Enrichment in the Summer Program

•

Family Outreach • In-Home Counseling • Marriage Counseling • In-Home Parenting Education • Respite Care • Emergency Food Supplies • Holiday Toy Program

•

Naval Medical Center • Patient Recreation • Therapy Dog Visitation • Children Pre-Operation Orientation • Operation Liberty Pass • Parent Group – Understanding Autism Together

•

Active Duty • Recreational Activities • Out & About Tours of San Diego • Welcome Homes for Returning Deployed Units • Thanksgiving Home Hospitality

ASYMCA locations include: 27

Armed Services YMCA Murphy Canyon 3293 Santo Rd San Diego, CA 92127

(858) 751-5755

Armed Services YMCA (619) 532-8156 Naval Medical Center San Diego 34800 Bob Wilson Dr, Bldg 1, Ground Floor San Diego, CA 92134 ASYMCA can be accessed online at www.asymcasd.org.

Chaplains / Spiritual Fitness Center Chaplains in the San Diego area represent a number of faith groups. In addition to conducting religious services and administering the rites and sacraments of their respective faith groups, Chaplains are available for pastoral counseling relating to marital, personal, substance abuse, growth and adjustment issues. Close liaison is maintained with other help agencies in the Navy and in the community. Chaplains can be a source of immediate assistance as well as a referral to appropriate community resources. Chaplains can be reached as follows: Naval Base Coronado Naval Base Point Loma Naval Base San Diego Naval Medical Center

(619) 545-8213 (619) 553-7201 (619) 556-2658 (619) 532-6025

The vision of Spiritual Fitness Center is to awaken service members and their family members to the inherent personal and social strength available by living healthy spiritual lives. They accomplish their mission through personal and spiritual growth retreats, marriage enrichment retreats, team building workshops and other functions and retreats throughout the year. Anyone with a valid military ID can attend retreats â&#x20AC;&#x201C; active duty, retired, reservist and family members. However, priority is given to active duty and their families. Chaplains Religious Enrichment Development Operation (CREDO) Naval Base San Diego 3670 Surface Navy Blvd, Bldg 330 San Diego, CA 92136 They can be accessed online at: http://www.sandiego.networkofcare.org/veterans/resource/agencydetail.cfm?pid= 28

CREDOChaplainsReligiousEnrichmentDevelopmentOperationSpiritualFitnessCe nter_870_17_0 https://www.facebook.com/CREDO.Southwest

Child Care Resource and Referral Child Care Resource and Referral manages the enrollment and waiting lists for Child Development Centers (CDCs) (on base) and Military Family Home Care Providers (MFHCPs) (located throughout the San Diego area). They can also assist you with resources and referrals to many other child care options in the area. For more information on resources available or to enroll or check your status on the waiting list, contact: Child Care Resource and Referral, local (619) 556-8491 or Toll free (877) 235-6002

Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System In order to be eligible for military benefits and entitlements, a military dependant must be enrolled with the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS). Normally the service member enrolls new dependants. However, in the case of a child born while the service member is deployed, the new parent must take care of it. To enroll a new baby, take your service memberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s power of attorney and proof of the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s date of birth (i.e. birth certificate or some other official record if the birth certificate has not yet been received) to your local identification (ID) card lab. ID Card Lab Naval Base San Diego 3101 E. Harbor Dr San Diego, CA 92113

(619) 556-9249

ID Card Lab (619) 532-6557 Naval Medical Center San Diego 34520 Bob Wilson Dr, Bldg 2, Ground Level, Ste 40 San Diego, CA 92134 Appointments can be made by phone with DEERS/DMDC at (800) 334-4162, or by accessing them online at https://rapids-appointments.dmdc.osd.mil/

Fleet and Family Support Counseling Services The Family Advocacy Program (FAP) is a Department of Defense program for the prevention, education, intervention and treatment of child physical and emotional abuse, child neglect, child sexual abuse and spouse abuse. The goal of the program is to educate and prevent abuse. Promoting positive parenting methods and a better understanding of the stages of child development, FAP is designed to prevent child abuse and domestic violence in an effort to promote a healthy family lifestyle. Family Advocacy Program

(619) 556-8809

Do not hesitate to call and if they are not available and you feel this is urgent, call 211 or if you have an immediate need, call 911. 211 is a national information and referral service with local branches. Calling 211 will get you connected to information and referral services within your community. 911 should be used in emergencies. County Child Protective Services or law enforcement only removes children from the home if a life-threatening condition is suspected. FAP does not remove children.

The mission of San Diego’s Family Justice Center (FJC) is to stop family violence, make victims safer, hold batterers accountable, provide long-term support for victims and children through collaboration and coordinated services and ultimately to be the first large city in the U.S. to eliminate domestic violence homicides. Their vision is to provide a safe location where all the needs of victims are met, children are protected, violence stops, families heal and thrive, economic justice increases, hope is realized, batterers are held accountable and all professionals work together. Some of the services they provide include: • • • • • •

Advocacy Child care Clothing Counseling Court support Emergency housing 30

• • • • • • •

Food Legal assistance Phones (cell phones, on-site phones and phone cards) Restraining orders Safety planning Support groups Transportation

FJC is located at:

Family Justice Center 707 Broadway, Ste 700 San Diego, CA 92101

For more information or for assistance, contact FJC’s Military Liaison at (619) 533-3592. They can be accessed online at www.familyjusticecenter.org.

Fleet & Family Support Center (FFSC), located on every base in the San Diego area, serves as an information and assistance center for service members and their families. FFSC is open Monday through Friday from 7:30a to 4:30p. Services provided include: • • • • • • • • •

Welcome Aboard Brochures Personal Financial Management Classes Transition and Family Employment Assistance Deployment Services Family Advocacy and Sexual Assault Victim Intervention Relocation Information Information and Referral Individual Marriage and Family Counseling Life Skills Education

A wide variety of classes and seminars are held each month. Call or access their website for a complete schedule. FFSC can be reached as follows: 31

Murphy Canyon Branch (858) 277-4259 Naval Base Coronado (619) 545-6071 Naval Base Point Loma (619) 553-8306 Naval Base San Diego (619) 556-7404 They can be accessed online at http://navylifesw.com/sandiego/families/ffsc/.

Identification Card Lab In the event that you lose your military identification (ID) card while the ship is deployed, take the service member’s power of attorney and some form of identification to your local ID card lab and they will issue you a new one. Notify the service member so the ship can advise Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) that you will be getting a new ID card. ID Card Lab (619) 556-9249 Naval Base San Diego 3101 E. Harbor Dr San Diego, CA 92113 Hours: Mon - Fri, 7:30a – 4:00p; 7:30a - 3:30p - walk-ins; ID Card Lab (619) 532-6557 Naval Medical Center San Diego 34520 Bob Wilson Dr, Bldg 2, Ground Level, Ste 40 San Diego, CA 92134 Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, 7:00a - 3:00p; Wed, 8:15a - 3:00p; walk-ins accepted all day Appointments can be made by phone with DEERS/DMDC at (800) 334-4162, or by accessing them online at https://rapids-appointments.dmdc.osd.mil/

Military Family Housing Office / Lincoln Military Housing Locating affordable housing in the San Diego area can be a challenge for service members and their families, but help is available. The Military Family Housing Office (MFHO) serves to provide you with a pleasant transition to and from San Diego. Whether you are looking for military family housing or a home in the private sector, MFHO can assist. Some of the services they provide include: • • • • •

Housing information package PCS check-in for housing Central automated listings of rental and sales properties Showing service for those with transportation problems (by appointment) Supervised child play area 32

• • •

Hardship assistance counseling for special needs Application for government quarters and waiting list General community information on utilities, schools, vehicle registration, crime and more

Currently there are more than 9,000 military family housing units located at 38 housing sites throughout San Diego available to service members and their families. All of these properties are managed by Lincoln BP Management, Inc. (Lincoln), a private property management company. Amenities at the different housing sites include: • • • • • • •

Free internet access Free courtesy patrol Free intrusion alarms 24/7 emergency maintenance Free children’s activities Free family programs Utilities included

To apply for military family housing, take a copy of the service member’s Page 2 and a copy of his/her orders to:

Military Family Housing Office Naval Base San Diego 2625 LeHardy St, Bldg 3544 San Diego, CA 92136

(619) 556-8443

Representatives of both Navy Housing and Lincoln will be available to assist you. You can also contact one of the Lincoln representatives directly by calling: Lincoln Military Housing

(619) 556-7667, M-F 8am-5pm

Lincoln can be accessed online at www.lpcmil.com.

Military OneSource Military OneSource is a comprehensive source to help you face life’s everyday challenges. Whether it’s help with child care, personal finances, emotional support during deployments, relocation information or resources needed for special circumstances, Military OneSource is there for military personnel and their families. . . 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year! The service, which is provided at no cost to active duty service members and their families, is available by phone, online and face-to-face through private counseling sessions in the local community. Highly qualified, master’s prepared consultants provide the service. Personalized consultations on specific issues such as education, special needs and finances are provided. Customized research detailing community resources and appropriate military referrals are offered. Clients can even get help with simultaneous language interpretation and document translation services. Military OneSource’s interactive website includes locators for education, child and elder care, online articles, referrals to military and community resources, financial calculators, live online workshops called Webinars and “E-mail a consultant." Additional resources include brief videos of consultants addressing common issues such as communicating as a couple, budgeting and managing anger. Face-to-face counseling sessions focus on issues such as normal reactions to abnormal situations (i.e. combat), couples concerns, work/life balance, grief and loss, adjustment to deployment, stress management and parenting. Those seeking counseling will receive up to six counseling sessions per issue at no cost to them. To access a counselor in your local community, contact a Military OneSource consultant directly. Military OneSource

(800) 342-9647

They can be accessed online at www.militaryonesource.com.

Military Outreach Ministries (MOM) is a ministry to active duty military families who are experiencing difficulty living in the San Diego economy. Everything they provide is free of charge. MOM provides food, children's items (including strollers, playpens, highchairs and gently used clothing), furniture and other household goods to those in need. They also care for emotional and spiritual needs through home visits to families in crisis, lending a compassionate ear, providing referral services, holding Bible studies and organizing social activities. Food ministries are held each week at alternating military family housing areas. Call their information line for dates and locations. San Diego office

(619) 461-4164 (Mon - Thurs, 9:30a - 1:30p)

They can also be accessed online at www.sandiegomom.org.

Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) administers a varied program of recreation, social and community support activities on Navy facilities worldwide. Their mission is to provide quality support and recreational services that contribute to the retention, readiness, mental, physical and emotional well-being of service members and their families. Their programs provide service members and their families with sports and physical fitness activities, child development and youth programs and a variety of food and beverage services. MWR provides an incredible amount of recreational opportunities in the San Diego area. They operate swimming pools, recreational facilities, fitness centers, hobby shops, clubs, restaurants, golf courses, libraries, marinas, a flying club, picnic areas, RV parks, theaters, a veterinary clinic, youth centers, outdoor gear rental and much more. For tickets to events, attractions, etc., contact one of MWRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Information, Tickets & Travel (ITT) offices: Naval Air Station North Island Navy Exchange Mall

(619) 545-9576

Naval Base San Diego Bldg 45, Pier 2 (near the movie theater)

(619) 556-2174

Naval Base San Diego Navy Exchange Complex (located in the Garden Center)

(619) 556-7498

Naval Base San Diego (located in the Bowling Alley – dry side)

(619) 556-2180

For information on other MWR services or MWR-sponsored events, contact them at: •

Naval Base San Diego

(619) 556-7745

You can also subscribe to their bi-monthly Wavewinds magazine by calling (619) 556-2334. MWR can be accessed online at www.mwrtoday.com.

Naval Legal Service Office Naval Legal Service Office (NLSO) is a customer service organization that provides legal services to active duty service members and their dependents. Their primary mission is to provide legal service to support fleet operational readiness – with priority being given to deploying commands. Under NLSO’s Legal Assistance Program, service members and their dependents can obtain legal advice and assistance from Judge Advocates (JAs) regarding personal legal rights and responsibilities. NLSO provides legal assistance in the following areas: • • • • • • • •

Wills, powers of attorney, notarizations, affidavits and bills of sale Domestic relations (adoptions, separations, nonsupport and referral to civilian lawyers for divorces) Name changes Contracts Taxation Landlord/tenant problems and interpretation of leases Consumer problems (product injury and product failure) Citizenship, immigration and passports

Call or check their website for hours. All services are provided on a walk-in basis.

NLSO is located at: Naval Legal Service Office Naval Base San Diego 3395 Sturtevant St, Suite 9 San Diego, CA 92136-5138

(619) 556-0049

NLSO can be accessed online at www.jag.navy.mil/legal_services/rlso/rlso_southwest.htm.

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) is a private non-profit charitable organization sponsored by the Department of the Navy that operates on Navy and Marine Corps bases throughout the world. They provide financial, educational and other assistance to service members and eligible family members during times of need. NMCRS provides no-interest loans or grants to assist with such emergencies as: • • • • • •

Funds for transportation in case of a critical illness or death in the immediate family Basic living expenses due to temporary lack of funds Medical and dental expenses in excess of TRICARE coverage Some funeral expenses Essential vehicle repairs Unforeseen family emergencies

Other services offered: • • • •

Layettes (“junior seabags”) for newborn babies Thrift stores (contact your local office for hours of operation and location of stores) Food lockers to assist families with emergency needs (a supply of non-perishable foods, baby formula, food and diapers is kept on hand) Volunteer opportunities with child care and mileage reimbursement

They can also provide needs-based scholarships and interest-free loans for educational purposes. NMCRS is located at: NMCRS North Island (619) 545-4477 Naval Base Coronado Saufley and Roosevelt Sts, Bldg 318-W San Diego, CA 92135-7075 Hours: Mon, Wed - Fri 8:00a - 4:00p, Tues 8:00a – 6:00p northisland@nmcrs.org NMCRS San Diego (619) 767-6800 Naval Base San Diego 3115 Dolphin Alley, Bldg 270 San Diego, CA 92136-8103 Hours: Mon – Wed, Fri 8:00a - 4:00p, Thurs 8:00a – 6:00p sandiego@nmcrs.org For emergency assistance after hours, contact American Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Service Center at (877) 272-7337. NMCRS can be accessed online at www.nmcrs.org. Pre-Authorization Form: If the service member wants to authorize his/her spouse to receive financial assistance without specific approval in case of an emergency situation, he/she must fill out a pre-authorization form, which his/her spouse must present to NMCRS.

New Parent Support Service members and family members are put in uniquely stressful situations, such as lengthy deployments and frequent moves, often with limited support. Add the normal anxieties of pregnancy and a new baby, and the stress can be overwhelming. New Parent Support (NPS) is designed to help you with your transition into parenthood. Do you have concerns and questions, but aren’t sure where to turn for help? The Community Health Nurse and professional, experienced Home Visitors can provide confidential, in-home assistance. They can provide you with information on military and community resources as well as one-on-one support and education. Special note to expecting moms – pregnancy can be an exciting, scary, happy, confusing time. Many women feel these emotions at some time – sometimes all at the same time! NPS staff are knowledgeable about pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum issues. They also teach child growth, development and parenting skills. 38

Additionally, NPS provides workshops covering a wide range of issues important to new parents such as “Parenting in a Military Family” and “Dads and Discipline”. They also sponsor playgroups at many of the military family housing areas throughout the area and have a combination workshop/playgroup, “Toddler Time”, where parents and their toddlers learn and play together. Things to remember about NPS: • • • •

All services are FREE and confidential. All expecting and new parents are eligible, even if this is not your first baby. They provide information and referral, education and in-home support. They want to help you give your baby the best gift of all – a loving, nurturing and happy parent!

For more information on NPS programs and how to get involved, contact them at: New Parent Support

(619) 767-1786

Operation Homefront provides emergency assistance and morale to troops, the families they leave behind during deployment, and wounded warriors when they return home. Together with 28 chapters across the U.S., they stand strong in support of the nation's troops and their families. They are proud to provide these programs and assistance at NO cost to the families due to the continued generosity of their sponsors and individual donors! Operation Homefront has programs for military families during all stages of military life. Some of the services they offer include: • • • • • • • • •

Crucial car repair assistance (deployed only) General handyman services (deployed only) Computers for email communications (deployed only) Appliance repair (deployed only) Moving assistance (deployed only) Vision care program Furniture and baby items Donated vehicles Emergency food assistance 39

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Emergency financial assistance Special events and holidays (ex., Easter, Back to School, Adopt-A-Family)

All programs are open to injured heroes (combat and non-combat related) Operation Homefront also operates www.spousebuzz.com, the largest informational resource and internet-based community for military families. They can be reached as follows: Operation Homefront California Office 8318 Miramar Mall San Diego, CA 92121-2520 California@operationhomefront.net

(855) 282-0960

They can be accessed online at www.operationhomefront.net/.

The Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program offers prevention education, victim intervention services, and comprehensive victim advocate and command point of contact training. The intervention portion of the program is designed to support victims and their families as they deal with the many issues following sexual assault trauma. If you (or a dependant? I believe the rules have changed to include assistance for minor dependants. Our SAPR could answer the question.) have been sexually assaulted, call the 24-hour crisis hotline. A SAVI advocate will be assigned to you. The advocate will provide you with the information you need, explain to you the required procedures, assist you throughout the course of the process and answer your questions. DOD Safe Helpline NAVBASE San Diego Linda Pratschner Katherine Wager Ashley Ducan

1-800-995-5247 (619) 279-2904 (619) 556-7426 (619) 556-9370 (619) 556-9366

TRICARE is the health care program serving active duty service members and their families worldwide. As a major component of the military health system, TRICARE brings together the health care resources of the uniformed services and supplements them with networks of civilian health care professionals, institutions, pharmacies and suppliers to provide access to high-quality health care services while maintaining the capability to support military operations. TRICARE is designed to help you control your “out of pocket” expenses while assuring that your family has access to high-quality health care. There are various options available within the TRICARE health program, including TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Standard and TRICARE Extra. Benefits and costs depend upon the program. You should select the program that best fits the needs of you and your family. United HealthCare administers the TRICARE program for the West Region. To enroll in one of the TRICARE health programs, go to one of the TRICARE Service Centers listed below. Note that these locations operate on a walk-in basis only and have no phone number references. TRICARE Service Center – Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Branch Medical Clinic 19871 Bauer Rd, Bldg 2496 San Diego, CA 92145 Hours: Mon - Fri, 7:30a - 4:00p TRICARE Service Center – Naval Base San Diego 3115 Dolphin Alley, Bldg 270 San Diego, CA 92136 Hours: Mon - Fri, 7:30a - 5:30p TRICARE Service Center – Naval Medical Center San Diego 34800 Bob Wilson Dr, Bldg 2, Deck 1 San Diego, CA 92134 Hours: Mon - Fri, 7:30a - 5:30p TRICARE Service Center – Naval Training Center Branch Medical Clinic 2650 Stockton Rd, Bldg 624 San Diego, CA 92106 Hours: Mon - Fri, 7:30a - 4:00p 41

If you prefer to enroll by phone, contact UHC as follows: UHC

(877) 988-WEST (9378)

United HealthCare can be accessed online at www.uhcmilitarywest.com. Additional assistance regarding health care benefits is available by calling the Health Benefits Office at Naval Medical Center San Diego. A Health Care Advisor will assist you with any questions regarding health care benefits available to you as a member of a Navy family. Health Benefits Office

(619) 532-8328

When enrolling with TRICARE, if a Military Treatment Facility (MTF) is available, it will be assigned as your primary care manager (PCM). If an MTF is not available, you may select a civilian provider. If your PCM is an MTF, contact the appropriate appointment center to make an appointment: Chula Vista Outpatient Clinic Kearney/Clairemont Mesa Outpatient Clinic East County Primary Care Clinic Naval Medical Center San Diego Naval Training Center Outpatient Clinic

(619) 744-5355 (619) 645-0155 (619) 645-0155 (619) 532-8225 (619) 532-8225

If your PCM is a civilian provider, contact him/her directly to make an appointment.

TRICARE Dental Program / MetLife TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) is an affordable dental program available to family members of all active duty service members. MetLife administers the contract for TDP. The program offers comprehensive dental coverage that includes: â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Diagnostic and preventative services (exams, cleanings, fluorides, sealants and x-rays) Basic restorative services (fillings) 42

• • • • •

Endodontics (root canals) Periodontics (gum surgery) Oral surgery (extractions) Prosthodontics (crowns and dentures) Orthodontics (braces)

Contact MetLife to determine eligibility for specific procedures. They can be reached as follows: TDP (enrollment and billing)

1-855-638-8371

They can be accessed online at www.tricare.mil/dental/tdp.aspx.

TRICARE Pharmacy TRICARE offers several convenient ways for you to have prescriptions filled depending on your family's specific needs. You can have prescriptions filled at any of these pharmacies, based on your specific situation, and you can use more than one option at a time. • • • •

Military Pharmacy: Least expensive option with no out-of-pocket costs Mail Order Pharmacy: Safe, convenient and the most cost-effective option when a military pharmacy is not available Retail Network Pharmacy: Fast and convenient . . . more than 54,000 network pharmacies in the U.S. and its territories Non-Network Pharmacy: Most expensive option

To have a prescription filled, you'll need a written prescription and a valid military identification card. Military Pharmacy Locations of military pharmacies in the area include: Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Branch Medical Clinic New prescriptions and refill pick-up Naval Air Station North Island New prescriptions and refill pick-up Navy Base San Diego Navy Exchange Complex New prescriptions only

(858) 577-9960

(619) 545-4290

(619) 556-9371

Naval Medical Center San Diego New prescriptions only Naval Training Center New prescriptions and refill pick-up

(619) 532-8400 (619) 524-0931

Hours vary, so call the pharmacy directly to confirm. There are several convenient ways to refill your prescriptions through the military pharmacy system: •

Online: go to www.med.navy.mil/sites/nmcsd/Prescription and click on "RX Refill". It is secure, fast and free!

•

By phone: call Naval Medical Center San Diego at (619) 532-8400

•

In person: pick-up a refill prescription at one of these three pharmacy locations: • • •

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar – Branch Medical Center Naval Air Station North Island Naval Training Center

All refills can be mailed to your home, free of charge. This is the preferred method for receiving refill prescriptions. Allow 8 to 10 working days for mail delivery. The mail order refill program excludes controlled substances, locally compounded drugs and investigational drugs. Naval Medical Center San Diego Pharmacy can be accessed online at www.med.navy.mil/sites/nmcsd/Patients/Pages/OnlinePharmacyRefillStatus.

Mail Order Pharmacy The TRICARE Mail Order Pharmacy (TMOP), which is administered by Express Scripts, Inc., is your least expensive option when not using the military pharmacy and it has several other advantages. It is safe, convenient and easy to use even when you are traveling on a temporary assignment or if you move. You may receive up to a 90-day supply for most medications through TMOP, for minimal out-of-pocket costs, and the medications will be delivered to your home. Once you are registered, refills can be requested by mail, phone or online. It is recommended that you use TMOP for prescriptions you need on a regular basis, but are unable to get at a military pharmacy. If you need immediate relief 44

from a pain medication or antibiotic, have your prescription filled at a military pharmacy or retail network pharmacy. For more information on TMOP, contact Express Scripts, Inc.

(877) 363-1303

They can be accessed online at www.express-scripts.com/TRICARE.

Retail Network Pharmacy If you need a prescription filled right away and are unable to get to a military pharmacy, you can visit one of the more than 54,000 civilian pharmacies that are part of the TRICARE Retail Network Pharmacy (RNP) program. Through retail network pharmacies, you can fill prescriptions (up to a 30-day supply of most prescription medications) for minimal out-of-pocket costs. This is a good option if you need to start a new prescription right away and are unable to get to a military pharmacy. Using a retail network pharmacy is easy. Simply present the pharmacist with your written prescription, along with your military identification card. For more information on RNP or to locate a participating pharmacy in your area, contact: Express Scripts, Inc.

(877) 363-1303

They can be accessed online at www.express-scripts.com/TRICARE.

Non-Network Pharmacy Filling prescriptions at a non-network pharmacy is the most expensive option. You may have to pay for the total amount first and then file a claim with the pharmacy contractor to receive a partial reimbursement after your deductible is met. With more than 54,000 TRICARE retail network pharmacies in the U.S. and its territories, visiting a non-network pharmacy should be your last option. For more information on using a non-network pharmacy, contact: Express Scripts, Inc.

(877) 363-1303

They can be accessed online at www.express-scripts.com/TRICARE.

The United Service Organizations (USO) is chartered by Congress as a non-profit charitable corporation. It is not a part of the U.S. Government, but is endorsed by the President and the Secretary of Defense. USO’s mission is to provide morale, welfare and recreation-type services to uniformed military personnel. The original intent of Congress, and the enduring style of USO delivery, is to represent the American people by extending a “Touch of Home” to their military members. Although some USO programs and services are similar to those provided by other agencies, the hallmark of USO has been and will continue to be HOW, as much as WHAT, services are provided. General programs and services include: • USO entertainment shows • “Newcomer” briefings for troops and family members • Airport service centers – (The “Neil Ash” Center at San Diego International Airport, located next to Terminal 1, offers specific traveler information. The center also offers a large screen TV, video games, an ATM, showers, coffee/snack bar, mother-child playroom and conference room.) • Family-oriented picnics and cookouts • Children's programs, especially around holidays • Tuesday night dinners • High-quality inexpensive tours • Employment assistance for military service discharges • New bride (and brides-to-be) orientations • USO Cyber Canteens for service members and their families to send and receive email or use the internet USO locations include: USO – Downtown Center (Main Office) (619) 235-6503 303 A St, Ste 100 San Diego, CA 92101 Hours: 365 days a year, 11:00a – 9:00p

USO – Neal Ash Airport Center (619) 296-3192 San Diego International Airport 3707 North Harbor Dr, Terminal 1 Lindbergh Field (Adjacent to Alaska Airlines counter) San Diego, CA 92101 Hours: 365 days a year, 6:00a - 11:59p USO San Diego can be accessed online at www.usosandiego.org.

United Through Reading offers a quality of life program for military families that helps deployed parents stay connected to their children – even while onboard ships, in tents or at air stations abroad – through the medium of reading children’s books aloud on DVD. Participants can also choose to stay connected to a child they are mentoring (younger brother or sister, grandchild, Big Brother/Sister program, etc). How does it work? • • •

The deployed service member is recorded, in private, reading a book to his/her child. The recording (and book, if owned by the service member) is mailed back home to the family where the child can watch and “read along” with mom/dad as often as he/she likes. Feedback in the form of pictures, letters, email or a recording of the child watching the parent read is sent back to the deployed service member – who is then motivated to read a new story!

Benefits of participation include maintaining educational and emotional bonds with children by continuing the story time tradition throughout the deployment, boosting family morale and easing children’s fears about their parent’s absence. United Through Reading 11750 Sorrento Valley Rd, Ste 100 San Diego, CA 92121

(858) 481-7323

They can be accessed online at www.unitedthroughreading.org.

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) serves to safeguard the health of low-income women, infants and children up to age five who are at nutritional risk by providing nutritious foods to supplement diets, information on healthy eating and referrals to health care. The WIC target population is low-income, nutritionally at risk: • • • • •

Pregnant women (through pregnancy and up to six weeks after birth or after pregnancy ends) Breastfeeding women (up to infant’s first birthday) Nonbreastfeeding postpartum women (up to six months after birth or after pregnancy ends) Infants (up to first birthday) Children (up to fifth birthday)

The following benefits are provided to WIC participants: • • •

Supplemental nutritious foods (i.e. infant formula, juice, milk, eggs, cheese, peanut butter, infant and adult cereal, dried peas and beans, tuna and carrots) Nutrition education and counseling at WIC clinics Screening and referrals to other health, welfare and social services

WIC is not an entitlement program as Congress does not set aside funds to allow every eligible individual to participate in the program. WIC is a federal grant program for which Congress authorizes a specific amount of funds each year for the program. WIC is administered by state and local agencies such as: • • • • •

county health departments hospitals mobile clinics (vans) community centers schools 48

•

public housing sites

For more information, contact WIC as follows: WIC

(888) 942-9675

They can be accessed online at www.fns.usda.gov/wic.

Youth Program The Youth Program (YP) offers a wide variety of recreation programs for children ages three to eighteen in eight military family housing areas in the San Diego area. Programs include open recreation, contract classes, field trips, teen programming, building rentals and special events, as well as the programs listed below. •

Before and After School Program – this program is designed to meet the needs of school-aged youth between the ages of five and twelve during the hours before and after school. Organized and supervised activities are planned and conducted at specific times before and after regular school hours.

•

Day Camp / Intercession – this program is offered for youth between the ages of five and twelve and is conducted during school holidays and summer vacation / intercession periods. Day camp activities include arts and crafts, sports, games, swimming, field trips, outdoor recreation, cultural programs and special events.

•

Tiny Tot Program – Tiny Tot classes are offered to children between the ages of three and five. This part-time program provides an open environment where your child can participate in arts and crafts, music and rhythm, story time, social games, movement and much more.

Youth activity centers can be contacted as follows: Bayview Hills Community Center Chesterton Community Center Gateway Recreation Center Hartman Community Center Murphy Canyon Kids Connection Murphy Canyon Youth Center Silver Strand Recreation Center Village at Serra Mesa Recreation Center

(619) 267-2018 (858) 268-2252 (619) 225-5628 (858) 270-2060 (619) 268-2233 (858) 268-2828 (619) 435-5056 (858) 571-3853

COMMAND SUPPORT TEAM Leadership Commanding Officer (CO) Executive Officer (XO)

CAPT Alvin Holsey CAPT Mike Feyedelem

Command Master Chief (CMC) CMC’s email address

CMDCM Thomas Moore CMC@lhd8.navy.mil

Command Ombudsmen FRG Leader

Annie Baker/Michelle Strickland Jamie Wade Robin Weaver

Ship’s Quarter Deck phone number

(619) 556-4141

Ship’s address

USS MAKIN ISLAND (LHD 8) FPO AP 96672-1601

Ship’s website address Ship’s Facebook page Ship’s Twitter page

www.makin-island.navy.mil/ www.facebook.com/USSMAKINISLAND www.twitter.com/USSMakinIsland

Notes: