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We Asked ... You Answered
Military families deserve more support.
Last month, we asked “Do you think the military provides enough family support to help children of servicemembers cope with separation during long deployments?”
Almost 80 percent of the 219 respondents to this question feel the level of assistance to families with loved ones deployed is lacking in respect to what they deserve.
However, others feel the assistance exists, but the awareness among family members is insufficient.
- “Definitely not! Too many families are left to cope without enough assistance.”
- “In most cases, the support is there — if the families choose to take advantage of it. Too many people do not even KNOW about what is available. Part of OUR responsibility is to help educate the public — especially our military families.”
- “While I was deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom, my unit and command did not help my daughter cope with anything. There was no information, outreach groups or assistance.”
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“I think the military should do more officially, rather than leaving most of the support to the military community or friends helping friends. This is an important aspect of support, and the military needs to step up.” -
“There needs to be more money allocated to the dependents for communication with their loved ones. We the soldiers have limited funds, and we have to spend all that we have just for a phone call home.” -
“I think the biggest problem is that they don't take advantage of the support. What there needs to be is e-mail, newsletters and notices in the base facilities where the dependents are present.” -
“I am a Family Support Coordinator, and the problem is: The families DO NOT notify anyone they need any help. They don't seem to want to take an active role in even coming to any meetings, or getting involved. So therefore, they have no earthly idea what’s available to them through the military as far as support.”
The VFW appreciates your feedback! Please weigh in on this month's question and share how you feel about important veterans' issues. |
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