By Seaman Shanika L. Futrell
Navy Public Affairs Support Element-East
NORFOLK, Va. – Nearly 200 demobilized Sailors returning from individual augmentee assignments or overseas deployments shared their experiences with shipmates and experienced counselors at the Returning Warriors Workshop in Norfolk, Jan 23-25.
During the workshop Sailors and their families learned how to overcome the conflicts they face at home and how to deal with the struggles associated with the transition from combat life to civilian life.
"This workshop is a great venue for our Sailors, both reserve and active duty, coming back home to gain personal introspection and to be able to re-adapt to life in the United States and at the same time become aware of medical issues that the Sailor might not be aware of when they return," said Cmdr. Jerry Hupp, chief of Staff, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Reserve Component Command.
Participants took part in several presentations and small group sessions while facilitators and therapist observed. The facilitators and therapists were trained to assist the participants with the issues that are discussed within the sessions.
"The group sessions are great because there's a sense of trust and a greater sense of disclosure," said Eric Harris, Family Support Administrator, REDCOM Mid-Atlantic.
Attendees from the workshop were pleased with the information and happy to know that they weren't alone.
"This event is very beneficial because we had a chance to say all the things we were dealing with when we deployed, and we received guidance on how to fix these issues," said Reservist Petty Officer 3rd Class Ernest Ahiable. "Also, my significant other doesn't understand the Navy, but now she has a better understanding on how to contact the ombudsman and because so many others could relate, now she has that foundation from the other military spouses as well."
RWW is new to REDCOM Mid-Atlantic and the command is doing its best to get the word out to Sailors and their families.
"This workshop is encouraged for the entire family not just the individual Sailor," said Harris. "A deployment affects the dynamics of the family, and we are able to help the family not just the individual."
For more information on the next RWW and location visit their website at http://navyreserve.navy.mil/Public/Staff/Centers/Forces+Command/Centers/REDCOM+Mid+Atlantic/WelcomeAboard/default.htm