   
ohn has volunteered for deployments to Germany, Saudi Arabia, Bosnia, Kuwait/Iraq and Korea. Each one came with its own unique challenges.
That's why the Army provides extensive pre-deployment training before every mission. So while John prepared for combat as a Patriot Launching Station Enhanced Operator/Maintainer, he also learned 
What helped Cathy most was "It was nice to know that we could reach out to them," she says. "And I think that makes you feel good as a parent. It's, like, send them cookies or whatever. It may sound silly, but that's what you can do. That's how I got through it." Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) made a big difference, too. These Army-supported programs keep family members informed about each unit while overseas. The updates are invaluable, as is the ability to lean on other Soldier families when necessary. For Cathy, these groups were vital.
“Family Readiness Groups are wonderful. They are informative and supportive during major deployments or time of war, but even in stable home units, it's an opportunity for the families of — Cathy
"There was a time when John was in Every deployment has had unique challenges for Cathy, as well. Bosnia was hard. Iraq was harder. Yet she was always able to focus on the best part: coming home. |
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