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The American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces
helps military members and military families cope with separation and
other special needs related to service in the armed forces. Services
include around-the-clock, around-the-world communication between military
members and their families; neutral, impartial assistance, including
comfort and counseling; independent verification of emergency situations;
and financial assistance and referrals for emergency travel and other
family needs.
If you reside in Aurora, Brule, Davison, Douglas,
Hanson, Hutchinson, or Sanborn county and need to reach a service
man or woman please call 1-800-951-5600 for assistance. |
Military Spouses
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Do something special to welcome your spouse home-help
the children make a welcome banner, make your spouse's favorite dessert,
etc., but be understanding and flexible if your spouse is too tired
to notice.
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Give your spouse time to adjust to being home. Don't
tightly schedule activities for them. Don't expect them to take on
all their old chores right away. Understand that your spouse may need
time to adjust to a different time zone, a change in food, etc.
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Plan on some family togetherness time. Suggest a picnic
or a special family meal. Time together helps the returning spouse
to get back into the rhythm of family life.
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Be patient and tolerant with your spouse. He or she
may not do things exactly as before. New experiences during deployment
may bring changes to attitude and outlook.
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Stick to your household budget. Don't spend money
you don't have on celebrating your spouse's return. Show you care
through your time and effort.
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Don't be surprised if your spouse is a little hurt
by how well you were able to run the household and manage the children
without them. Let them know that your preference is to share family
and household responsibilities with them no matter how well you did
on your own.
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Stay involved with your children's school activities
and interests. Don't neglect the children's need for attention as
you are becoming reacquainted with your spouse.
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Stay involved in your own activities and interests,
but be flexible about making time for your spouse.
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Don't be surprised if children test the limits of
the family rules when your spouse returns. It's normal for children
to want to find out how things may have changed by acting up a bit.
Consistent enforcement of family rules and even-handed discipline
are key to dealing with acting out.
Remember:
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Go slowly - don't try to make up for lost
time
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Accept that your partner may be different
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Intimate relationships may be awkward at first
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Take time to get reacquainted
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225 North Lawler St.