The time has come for you to be deployed for military action. You have many things to take care of before embarking on your new mission. Your military has done a lot of work to make sure you will be taken care of, but it is your job to make sure your family is taken care of. Use the following tips to help reduce the anxiety of your family.

• Get your legal and financial affairs in order.
  Develop a family care plan, and make sure you are up to date on your insurance, will, and finances.
  

• Be up to date on your medical benefits.
  Keep up with the paperwork, and make sure you have all necessary immunizations and vaccinations.
  

• Don't neglect the homefront.
  Arrange for your family's security and safety in your absence. Work together in preparing for the difficult separation ahead.
  

• Anticipate the worst.
  It is not pleasant to think about, but be sure your family will be taken care of in the event you are seriously injured or killed.
  

• Get a passport.
  With heightened terrorist threats, sometimes it is safer to travel as a U.S. civilian rather than a servicemember. Find out how you can get a passport quickly.
  

• Use military support services.
  You are not alone—there are many official and unofficial sources of aid and assistance.