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Redeployment and Reunion

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. John W. Davis III
  • 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Chaplain Assistant
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan --  Many of Bagram's warriors are gearing up to redeploy during the next few weeks. Just as we have been mission-focused throughout the deployment, we must also be reunion-focused and ensure we are taking the necessary steps to help facilitate a smooth transition back home.

To help with the reunion process, make sure you communicate, understand that you have changed, and understand that your family has changed:

1. COMMUNICATE: Constant communication back home is essential to a smooth transition to home life. If you have family back home, ensure you are contacting them frequently. If not, ensure you are talking with friends and co-workers. Be patient and discuss your needs for when you get back. Lay out any expectations you may have upfront, and allow them to do the same. This will help maintain that free flow of communication that is essential to a successful reintegration back home.

2. UNDERSTAND THAT YOU HAVE CHANGED: You have been deployed for an extended period of time and have experienced things your family has not. You may find that you are relating more to your unit than your family; this is perfectly normal as you have been mission-focused the past few months. Take it slow while re-establishing your place at home in your family. Don't try to change any of the daily household routine items immediately. Take the time to ease into the routine, adapt and then make adjustments as necessary.

3. UNDERSTAND THAT YOUR FAMILY HAS CHANGED! Your family has been without you for an extended period of time and has experienced things that you have not. Things have changed; they are not the same as when you left. Your spouse has become more independent and has learned new coping skills. Your spouse may even have new friends and support systems. Support the good things your family has done while you have been gone and take the time to talk and listen to them. Let them guide you back in to their lives. If you have children, take the reunion process with them slow and be patient; let them set the pace for getting to know you again. Observe how your spouse manages the children and then adapt accordingly. Always try to communicate with flexibility, patience and respect.

Your chapel staff always stands ready to assist with any concerns you have about reintegrating back into home life. Safe travels and all the best as you redeploy back home.