Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program, Part II

  • Published
  • By Major Don Traud
  • 452 AMW/PA
SAN DIEGO, CALIF. --  The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program (YRRP) fulfills the requirement of establishing a national combat veteran reintegration program. The program's goal is to prepare servicemembers and their families for mobilization, sustain families during mobilization and reintegrate military members with their families, communities and employers upon redeployment. 

Whatever issues the approximately 120 attendees faced at the first YRRP in San Diego earlier this month were addressed before they left. Counseling was available for combat stress, financial management, marital issues, health care, parent/children communications and family separation to name a few. Private sessions were available at the event and future appointments could be made. What participants were surprised to discover was that these services were free. 

One of the biggest resources available to military members and their families, 24/7, is Military OneSource. You can download thousands of fiction and non-fiction book titles; fix a car, lawnmower or you name it; create a resume, take a practice SAT, ACT or GRE test; or read an animated book to your child. If you want answers and resources for free, this should be your first stop. Even the phone call is toll-free: 800-342-9647. 

Returning home from combat presents real challenges, and homecomings often test the closest of relationships. The Soldiers Project, a private, non-profit group of volunteer social workers, psychologists and family therapists, provide free, confidential counseling to military members and their families. If you notice moodiness, irritability, emotional unavailability or lack of concentration, this organization can provide the support needed to smooth the transition home. You can reach them at www.thesoldiersproject.org or toll-free at 877-576-5343. 

Briefers presented free information on how to protect your identity, obtain a job in this tight economy and various VA benefits.
If being transported to a fantasy land helps you de-stress, then visit the tickets and tours office for great military discounts at parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios. All of this was offered to participants at no cost: free meals, child care, hotel room, parking and mileage reimbursement. All you had to pay - was attention.