"The Family Readiness Group (FRG) provides an avenue of mutual support and assistance and a network of communication among family members, the chain of command, and community resources. The primary purpose of any FRG is to encourage self-sufficiency among its members by providing information, referral assistance, and mutual support. KEY LESSONS: The FRG encourages self-sufficiency among its members; the FRG achieves family readiness by providing emotional support and activities that build a cohesive team; and the FRG and the Rear Detachment (Rear D) provide the primary support to family members during a unit's deployment. Family readiness initiatives are designed to assist Army families during periods of deployment or emergency and provide a means of information flow between the military (Rear D) and family members. During periods of non-deployment, FRG activities are directed at developing a sense of community among families in partnership with their unit. Knowing family members will have the collective support of unit FRGs and the Rear D command group allows Soldiers and leaders to focus on mission requirements." Publisher's description.

Title from cover. "July 2007." "U.S. unclassified."

Foreword / Steven Mains -- Introduction -- Thoughts for a deploying commander -- Rear detachment command: mission and organization -- Preparations and execution -- Rear detachment challenges -- Family readiness groups -- Casualty operations: the glass ball -- Conclusion -- APPENDIX A: GREATEST CHALLENGES: Managing family issues -- Operations Security (OPSEC) -- Family care teams -- APPENDIX B: Frequently asked questions on rear detachment operations -- APPENDIX C: Links to resources