QUANTICO, Va. — The Marine Corps has always been known for taking of their own, now with updates to the Family Care Plan, the Marine Corps is making sure Marines have a plan if something were to happen. All Marines with dependents will put together a plan of attack for if they are injured or hospitalized.
All Marines with dependents must have the care plan validated before March 26, 2013. If there is permanent change of duty station within the next year, it will be checked as part of their check-in process.
On March 26, the Marine Corps updated MCO 1740.13B, which provides a policy for the requirements, preparation, validation and maintenance of specific instructions for the care of dependent family members.
The care plan requires the Marine to designate a short- and long-term caregiver for their dependents as well as an emergency/alternate caregiver in case of death or incapacity.
“If a Marine is going to take the time to make sure their weapon is correct and their uniforms are correct, then they need to take the time to make sure their families are taken care of, too," said Joyce Murphy, the Family Readiness Programs manager.
The Family Readiness Program encourages Marines, both single and those with dependents, to have a will as well as their family care plan.
“It’s important for them to have a plan in case something happens,” said Ivette Bennett, Marine Corps Family Team Building life skills trainer. “It’s less stressful for the family, less stress on the children, less stress on the command.
“In the past, Marines were under the impression that they didn’t need one unless they were deploying,” said Bennett. “But, on any given day, you get on I-95, which is a crapshoot. You might make it; you might not. So you need to have all of those things lined up.”
When there is a change in the family due to divorce, marriage or adding another dependent, the Marine will need to make those changes to their care plan to keep it up to date.
To set up the Family Care Plan, Marines can contact their unit Family Readiness Officer or call the Marine Corps Family Team Building at 703-432-1901. Marines who need to set up a will can make an appointment up with legal assistance at 703-784-3122.
Correspondent: tabitha.bartley@usmc.mil