It is important that family members know how to contact you while
you are en route to your new assignment. All military members in transit should
give a copy of their orders and itinerary to a family member who is not
traveling with them. This gives family members, law enforcement officials etc.,
a way to contact you in case of an emergency. ALWAYS CARRY A COPY OF YOUR LEAVE
AND EARNINGS STATEMENT AND YOUR ORDERS WITH YOU! In the event of an emergency
you may contact the nearest chapter of the American Red Cross or go to the
nearest military or Coast Guard installation. Contact the local Family Support
Center, Navy Family Services Center or Army Community Services Center. Emergency
financial assistance may be requested from Air Force Aid, Navy Relief, or Army
Emergency Relief. Though not a part of the DOD Coast Guard bases offer these
same services. Carry a copy of this SITES package with you so you will have
important numbers readily available. Emergency Assistance is available through
the Air Force Aid Society at the Family Support Center and the American Red
Cross. The Air Force Aid Society may be able to assist active duty and retired
military members and their families with an interest free loan for basic needs
(rent, food, utilities, vehicle insurance), medical bills, or emergency travel
(death in the family, etc). Each case is reviewed on an individual
basis. The Air Force Aid Society serves all branches of service by
coordinating with the other Emergency Relief programs. Often, services are
joined with the efforts of the Red Cross to ensure total assistance to the
member and their families. The American Red Cross helps military personnel and
their families in four basic ways -
1. Reporting and Emergency
Communications - When emergencies strike military personnel or their families
anywhere in the world - death, serious illness, or other urgent situations ARC
links separated families and helps facilitate emergency travel when
needed.
2. Information and Referral - The Red Cross helps military
families cope with non-urgent problems by providing information, referral and
guidance on a strictly confidential basis. These services can help military
families understand and apply for government benefits, receive assistance from
appropriate referral agencies, provide assistance in arranging family support,
or even help resolve anxieties about loved ones.
3. Health and Safety
Courses - Military personnel and family members may arrange to receive training
in first aid, water safety, boating safety, and many other health and safety
courses.
4. Volunteer Opportunities - Military members and their families
can and do, join the millions of Americans who volunteer with the Red Cross
every year. Volunteers donate blood, provide disaster relief, work in hospitals,
and assist others in countless ways.