Introduction

What is a Deployment?  A deployment is a military duty away from home.  It may be as short as overnight or as long as an unaccompanied tour.  The purpose of a deployment or separation is to keep our military forces at the highest state of readiness and to meet our global military commitments.  Your spouse may deploy at any time, although most separations are scheduled well in advance.  The nature of the military makes it extremely important to have your family affairs in order so that you will be able to take care of unexpected situations that may come up during a deployment or separation.  This handbook has been developed to help you and your family in preparing for deployment, unaccompanied tours, and extended temporary duty.  You will find within these pages helpful suggestions and pertinent information about post agencies and those tasks which are essential for your family's welfare.  As with any separation, preparation is the key to success.  We hope you will use this handbook to prepare your family.  You will discover that there are many areas of concern that go unnoticed until it is your own family situation.  Please take the time to fill in the necessary information so that the challenges and stresses related with your spouses absence can be minimized.