Understanding the Service Member
Why Military Love Relationships Are Different - Download Here
How to Prepare for Going to Iraq - Download Here
Military Oath of Enlistment - Download Here
Why US Flag Etiquette Matters - Download Here
Ten Things You Should Know - Download Here
Ten Tough Facts About Combat - Download Here
What Is A Warrior? - Download Here
Warning Sign, Triggers and Coping Strategies for Iraqi War Veterans - Download Here
"What Can I Do to Be Truly Supportive of Returning Troops?"
* When you see or meet a Service Member, thank him or her for their service--even if they served years ago. They never tire of hearing it.
* If you see a Service Member in the airport, treat him or her to lunch or a snack. It will be a welcomed surprise and deeply appreciated, no matter what the rank of the Service Member.
* Send care packages through one of the groups listed here. You can't send one on your own, unless it is to a specific Service Member at their specific address, because of security risks.
* Make donations to a local Family Readiness Group (FRG)--there is one attached to most units and on all military bases. FRGs support the families before, during, and after deployments
* Reach out to a Blue Star family in your neighborhood--a family whose family member is deployed overseas. They often fly the Blue Star flag in their front window. Offer them support. Ask how their loved one is doing. And make sure you are on their emergency call list, if something happens.
* Contribute to the USO. They provide all kinds of important services to Service Members all over the world.
* Get involved with any of the organizations listed below, whether it is to spread the word about them, donate to them, or volunteer your time to help.
* Learn everything you can about their experience. Rent The War Tapes, go see the new documentary, Fighting for Life. Read books written by Service Members about their experience. Face these realities fearlessly. After all, if 20 year old kids can live them, you should be able to at least read about them.
* Fly the US Flag...and do so correctly (see above)
* Join the military yourself! There's no better way to support the troops than to get in there and work side-by-sode with them. If you're in any of the medical fields and you are physically fit, the Army will take you well into your 50's!
Understanding the Experience (Audio)
"Calling All Friends"
Listen (3.31M)
Understanding the Experience (Videos)
"Combat and Operational Stress Reaction(COSR)" presentation by CPT Alison Lighthall Crane, RN, MS, HAND2HAND CONTACT Founder
Watch Power Point
"Remember Me" by Lizzie Palmer
Watch Video
Until We Meet Again
Watch Video
A Warrior's Ethos - The Soldier's Creed
Watch Video
"It's a Pitance of Time"
Watch Video
Understanding the Experience (Links)
MN National Guard's extensive reintegration program, "Beyond the Yellow Ribbon". A blueprint every State should be following.
Read More
The best email newsletter on PTSD in returning soldiers anywhere. Constant flow of valuable information.
Read More
Useful Links for Service Members and Their Families
