CHAPLAIN'S NOTE #2
SMART BOOK Information

My first article, Helpful Hints for Deployment Survival, was an overview of lessons learned from many short and long deployments.  This time I hope to share with you practical suggestions which will short cut or minimize problems you might otherwise find overwhelming as you deal with separation, work and school schedules, children, bills and other financial matters that changed when the Army deployed your soldier.  If you haven't noticed any significant changes yet, get ready "they're coming" and here is how you prepared for them.

SMART BOOK:  Go buy a 2" while notebook binder along with a pack of plastic document holders to go in it.  If you're a "file folder" person, that will work as well.  I'd suggest the following documents for your Smart Book as an immediate resource for almost any contingency or emergency.  The last thing you need in an emergency is trying to remember where you placed critical information.  Keep the Smart Book visible so someone else can get it for you if needed.  Here we go with the contents. 

1. Social Security Cards and Certified Birth Certificates for every family member.  YES, children need a SS #.  If you haven't needed it yet, you will soon.  Beat the hassle and get it now.  2. Shot Records   3. Car insurance Papers (Be sure the CURRENT Proof of Insurance Certificate is easily available in your car, along with the CURRENT Car Registration, and make a note on your calendar for when it will need renewal again).  4. House or Renter's Insurance Papers, Mortgage and Loan Papers   5. Marriage Certificates (Leave the one that's on the wall but visit the County Court House and they can provide a certified copy), Divorce Documents, Child Custody, etc. 

6. Wills (Provided FREE by the Army so get your soldier to GIVE YOU A COPY!  There is no will until you have a copy.  I love Tennessee but I don't want the State of TN to decide what I want in an emergency).

7. Powers of Attorney (General or Special are provided FREE by the Army).  One note about POAs, just because you have one doesn't mean everyone will accept it.  A POA's acceptability is always determined by the receiving institution or individual.  Typically, financial institutions (banks) won't accept a POA to make account changes, loans, etc.  For that reason, you need to be sure you have a joint account or other arrangement in place prior to deployment.  Think it through.   8. Special Power of Attorney for guardianship AND Certified Certificate of Acceptance from the legal guardian.    9. Life Insurance Papers (Army and Civilian, your soldier is now active duty and has Army life insurance.)  10. Pet Documents and Shot Records   11. TRICARE and dental cards.  (Also keep a copy in your hand bag) Everyone is watching medical costs.  Local providers may not totally understand the military medical system so you must be aware of your benefits and how to access them.  Remember, TRICARE prior-approves treatment unless it's an emergency.  You need to talk with TRICARE about normal visits, specialty consults and any treatment you're not absolutely sure about prior to arriving at the doctor's office.  When you receive a bill in the mail, DO NOT PAY THE BILL without talking to TRICARE.  TRICARE determines how much to pay for medical treatment even though you may receive a bill that reflects a higher amount due.  TALK! TALK! TALK! to TRICARE before ACTING.  (Also, post the TRICARE 800 number on your refrigerator).  12. Family Support Group Roster (Also, post a copy on your refrigerator!)  Be sure you receive the FSG Newsletter.  If you don't have email, get it!  If you don't know how, ask someone who does!  It may possibly be the best and most reliable way to communicate during the deployment.  NOTE:  Phone card minutes from IRAQ are expensive,  a one (1) minute call will cost ten (10) minutes on your calling card, i.e. 100 Minute Card = 10 Minute Conversation.  13. Rear Detachment Commander's Phone number and address (Also, post a copy on your refrigerator!)  ESSENTIAL NOTE:  If you plan to travel, move or otherwise not be easily contacted, NOTIFY YOUR REAR-D AND FSG Leader.  If the Army needs to contact you or provide information concerning your soldier or the unit status, it will come from these two sources, ONLY!

No one anticipates a crisis, that's why it's called a crisis.  Your separation anxiety will decrease in proportion to the planning you have accomplished.  If you have a suggestion beyond those I've mentioned, please send me an email or share it with your family support group leader so others have the advantage of your insight.  If you would like a checklist for these and other items or have a question, send me an email. 

CH (Got the T-Shirt) Sharp