Throughout our country’s history, the steadfast support of military Families has been a source of inspiration to men and women in uniform.  They have faced the special challenges of long deployments and Family separations with great courage and resolve.  In doing so, they have directly contributed to the mission readiness of our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen.

Army Reserve Families are important because the strength of our Soldiers comes from the strength of their Families.  We recognize the contributions and sacrifices they make every day that allow their Soldiers to focus on their mission and protect themselves and other warriors.

When my wife, Laura, and I meet with Families at home, we are amazed at their resilience and spirit, and when I visit Afghanistan and Iraq, I am in awe at the great work Family support helps Soldiers to do.

Nine years of war has placed incredible strain on our Warrior-Citizens and their Families.  All military Families face hardships when their loved ones deploy – regardless of whether they’re active-duty or Reserve. Unlike active-duty Families, who can turn to their local post for help if they need it, Army Reserve Families often live far from an Army post and many don’t know what resources or services are available to them.

Since Sept. 11, 2001, the Army Reserve has learned that we must do more to take care of our own and that every level of the chain of command must be involved to ensure our Families are just as prepared for deployment as our Soldiers.

That’s why we’ve launched a number of initiatives and programs to assist those who are holding down the home front, far from the nearest military installation, when their Soldiers deploy. 

We’re also working to keep Families informed with Army Strong magazine and this Web site.  Like telephone trees, regular Family support meetings, and other activities that improve communications, these products accomplish several things.  They keep Families informed so they get the latest and the correct information, and they keep the unit informed about what’s going on with the Family.  Continuous communications help our Family readiness groups identify when Families need help, but either doesn’t know what to ask for or is afraid to ask for help. 

I want every military Family living in small town America to have the same support as if they were living on the installation.  Our men and women in uniform and their Families have clearly done their duty – and more – and it now falls upon us, as a grateful nation, to do ours in return.