Preparing for Deployment: A Checklist for Service Members

Last updated 1 week ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.

Deployment is a fundamental part of military life. Whether you’re deploying to support a long-term mission, provide humanitarian assistance, or ensure regional stability, thorough preparation is essential for mission success and peace of mind back home. While every deployment is unique, depending on your specific orders, service branch, and destination, a structured approach to preparation can significantly ease the transition.

This guide provides a checklist covering the critical areas you need to address before deploying, drawing on official resources from the Department of Defense and individual service branches. Use this as a framework but always prioritize the specific requirements provided by your unit.

The Foundation: Your Unit’s Checklist & Continuous Readiness

While general guides offer valuable information, the single most important document for your deployment preparation is the specific checklist provided by your unit. Your unit’s checklist is tailored to the exact requirements of your mission, location, and timeline. It will detail mandatory training, specific gear and packing lists, administrative procedures, and deadlines that general resources cannot capture. Missions vary significantly – from ship-based patrols to forward operating bases in combat zones or stations resembling home – and your unit’s list reflects these unique demands. Obtain this checklist as early as possible and use it as your primary guide.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to understand that being “deployment ready” isn’t just a task list to complete upon receiving orders; it’s a state of continuous personal and professional readiness maintained throughout your military career. Many items on a pre-deployment checklist, such as maintaining medical and dental readiness (including current Periodic Health Assessments – PHAs), ensuring your Record of Emergency Data (DD Form 93) and Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) beneficiaries are up-to-date, completing mandatory training, and maintaining security clearances, are ongoing requirements. Addressing these items proactively throughout the year significantly reduces the pressure and workload during the often compressed pre-deployment timeframe, allowing you to focus on mission-specific preparations and spending valuable time with loved ones.

Legal Preparedness: Protecting Your Interests

Getting your legal affairs in order before deploying provides significant peace of mind, ensuring your wishes are documented and trusted individuals can act on your behalf if needed.

Essential Documents

Will

A Last Will and Testament ensures you decide what happens to your property and belongings and designates a guardian for minor children in the event of your death. Without a will, a court may make these decisions. You’ll need to appoint an executor to carry out your wishes. Consider also a Living Will (advance directive) detailing medical treatment preferences if incapacitated and a Durable Medical Power of Attorney appointing someone to make healthcare decisions for you.

Power of Attorney (POA)

This document grants legal authority to a trusted person (your agent or attorney-in-fact) to handle financial, legal, or specific personal matters while you are unavailable. It is crucial to understand the different types:

• General POA: Grants broad authority over most affairs.
• Special or Limited POA: Restricts authority to specific actions or transactions (e.g., managing a specific bank account, selling a vehicle, handling childcare matters, enrolling children in school). These should be detailed. Many financial institutions require their own specific POA forms or prefer Special POAs over General POAs. Check with each institution.
• Other types include Durable POAs (remain valid if you become incapacitated) and Springing POAs (become effective only upon a specific event like incapacitation). POAs can also have specific termination dates or events.

Family Care Plan

If you are a single parent, part of a dual-military couple with dependents, or have sole responsibility for other dependents, a formal Family Care Plan is typically required by your service. This plan details arrangements for childcare, schooling, medical care, finances, and emergency contacts for your dependents during your absence. Your designated guardian will likely need specific POAs (medical, logistical) to effectively care for your dependents.

Getting Legal Help

Service members and their families are typically eligible for free legal assistance to prepare these documents. Contact your installation’s Legal Assistance Office (also known as the Staff Judge Advocate or JAG office). You can find contact information through MilitaryINSTALLATIONS or the online Armed Forces Legal Assistance Locator. Military OneSource also provides resources and consultations regarding legal assistance.

Document Storage and Access

Gather all important personal and family documents. Keep originals in a secure location (like a safe deposit box or fireproof safe) and ensure a trusted family member or your POA holder knows the location and has access or copies. Key documents include:

• Military and driver’s licenses for all family members
• Birth certificates, marriage license, divorce decrees, adoption papers
• Social Security cards
• Passports and visas/citizenship papers
• Vehicle titles and registrations
• Insurance policies (life, health, auto, home)
• Deeds, mortgages, lease agreements
• Tax returns (past 5 years suggested)
• Copies of military orders
• List of important account passwords and logins

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA)

This federal law provides significant financial and legal protections to active-duty service members. Key protections relevant to deployment include:

• Interest Rate Cap: Reduces pre-service loan interest rates (mortgages, credit cards, auto loans) to 6% during active duty.
• Protection from Eviction: Landlords generally cannot evict you or your family for nonpayment of rent (below a certain monthly amount) without a court order. You may be able to request a delay if military service materially affects your ability to pay.
• Lease Termination: Allows you to terminate residential housing and automobile leases without penalty if you entered the lease before active duty or if you receive deployment or PCS orders during service (deployment must be 90 days or more). Important: This protection is not automatic. You must provide written notice and a copy of your military orders to the landlord or leasing company. Consult Legal Assistance for proper procedures.
• Protection Against Default Judgments: If you are sued while deployed and cannot appear in court, the SCRA offers protection against default judgments.
• Stay of Proceedings: You can request a minimum 90-day delay (stay) in civil court cases or administrative proceedings if your military duties prevent you from participating.

Learn more at the official SCRA website and Military OneSource. Whether you are “materially affected” by service, a condition for some protections, depends on individual circumstances, so seeking legal advice is recommended.

Outstanding Issues

Resolve any pending legal matters like traffic tickets, fines, custody disputes, or divorce proceedings before deploying, or ensure arrangements are made for them to be handled in your absence.

Financial Readiness: Managing Your Money

Sound financial planning before deployment is critical to reduce stress for both you and your family, manage potential changes in income, and potentially achieve savings goals.

Key Actions

Create a Deployment Spending Plan

Develop a budget that accounts for your income and expenses before deployment, and project changes during deployment. Factor in potential deployment-related income like special pays (Hostile Fire Pay/Imminent Danger Pay, Family Separation Allowance) and tax exclusions (income earned in designated combat zones may be tax-free). Also consider potential expense changes, such as reduced food costs if meals are provided, or increased costs for childcare or pet boarding. Discuss the plan with your spouse or the person managing finances at home.

Set Financial Goals

Deployment can be an opportunity to pay down debt or save. Define specific, measurable goals (e.g., pay off a credit card, save $X for a down payment, contribute Y% to TSP).

Automate Bill Payments

Set up automatic payments for recurring bills like mortgage/rent, utilities, car payments, insurance, and credit cards. Use direct withdrawal from a bank account or a credit card that will not expire during your deployment. Arrange payment for periodic expenses like taxes or tuition.

Manage Bank Accounts

Ensure your pay is set up for direct deposit. If married or using a POA, ensure the person managing finances has necessary access (e.g., online banking passwords, PINs, potentially separate or joint accounts). Provide access to view your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) via MyPay to monitor pay changes.

Manage Credit

Notify credit card companies of your deployment status and potential overseas usage to prevent fraud alerts or blocks. Check expiration dates on cards you or your family will use. Keep a secure list of card numbers and contact information. Consider placing an active-duty alert or security freeze on your credit reports to prevent identity theft while deployed.

Utilize Savings Programs

If eligible based on your deployment location, consider the Savings Deposit Program (SDP), which offers a guaranteed 10% annual interest rate on deposits up to $10,000 made while deployed to designated areas. Continue or increase contributions to your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), especially if receiving tax-exempt income in a combat zone.

Plan for Taxes

Understand potential tax benefits (like combat zone tax exclusions). Determine if you need to file for an extension if taxes are due during deployment (IRS Military Info). Ensure your POA holder has necessary tax documents if they will file for you.

Review Insurance

Confirm adequate life, auto, and homeowners/renters insurance coverage and that policies won’t expire.

Establish an Emergency Fund

Having readily accessible funds for unexpected expenses (car repairs, travel) is crucial.

Financial Resources

Personal Financial Managers/Counselors

Installation Military and Family Support Centers (M&FSCs) and Military OneSource offer free financial counseling services to help with budgeting, debt management, savings strategies, and understanding deployment entitlements.

MilSpouse Money Mission

An official DoD resource specifically for military spouses (website).

Military Aid Societies

These non-profit organizations provide emergency financial assistance (typically zero-interest loans and grants) to service members and families facing unexpected hardship. They are a crucial safety net:

• Army Emergency Relief (AER)
• Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS)
• Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) (Application Portal: AFAS Portal)
• Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA)

Assistance can cover needs like emergency travel, basic living expenses, vehicle repairs, funeral expenses, and disaster relief. If you are not near your service’s aid society office, you can often seek assistance through the American Red Cross or another service’s aid society due to reciprocal agreements.

Medical & Dental Readiness: Ensuring Your Health

Maintaining medical and dental readiness is not just a pre-deployment task but a continuous requirement for all service members. It ensures you are fit for duty and minimizes the risk of medical emergencies in environments where healthcare access may be limited.

Key Actions

Deployment Health Assessments (DHAs)

A series of health screenings are mandatory for many deployments:

• Pre-Deployment Health Assessment (Pre-DHA / DD Form 2795): Completed 30-90 days before deploying. Assesses current health and identifies potential concerns that could interfere with deployment duties. Requires a current Periodic Health Assessment (PHA) and full medical readiness status. These are typically completed electronically via systems like the Electronic Deployment Health Assessment (EDHA) for Navy/Marine Corps (check service-specific portals).
• Post-Deployment Health Assessments: Be aware that you will also undergo assessments upon return (PDHA / DD Form 2796) and several months later (PDHRA / DD Form 2900) to screen for deployment-related health concerns. Coast Guard expeditionary deployments have additional mental health assessments.

Periodic Health Assessment (PHA)

Ensure your annual PHA is current and completed within the required timeframe.

Dental Readiness

You must have a dental exam within 12 months prior to deployment and be classified as Dental Readiness Class 1 or 2 (meaning you are deployable and not likely to have a dental emergency). Class 3 or 4 requires treatment before deployment. Orthodontic care requiring adjustments generally precludes deployment unless cleared.

Vision Readiness

Similar to dental, you must be Vision Readiness Class 1 or 2. Ensure you have an adequate supply of prescription eyeglasses and/or contact lenses, plus cleaning solutions. If required, obtain prescription protective mask inserts. Always pack required eye protection (e.g., APEL-approved eyewear).

Immunizations

All required vaccinations must be current, including any specific shots mandated for your deployment theater. Keep a copy of your immunization records.

Required Screenings and Tests

Depending on service, gender, and deployment location, you may need tests such as HIV screening (typically within 2 years), a DNA sample on file, hearing tests (audiograms), Tuberculosis (TB) skin testing, G6PD testing (for certain medications), Pap smears and pregnancy tests (for females), and potentially pre-deployment neurocognitive assessments (like ANAM or ImPACT).

Prescriptions

Obtain at least a 180-day supply (or duration of deployment plus buffer) of any necessary prescription medications. Keep medications in their original packaging with your name and prescription information clearly visible. Carry copies of your prescriptions. Discuss with your provider whether your medications are suitable for the potential environmental conditions (heat, cold) of your deployment location and if they have side effects that could be problematic. Certain medications may require waivers or be disqualifying.

Medical Records

Ensure your medical records are accurate and up-to-date. Carry copies of pertinent medical information if necessary. Ensure your DD Form 2766 (Adult Preventive and Chronic Care Flowsheet) is completed.

Medical Warning Tags

Obtain and wear medical warning tags (similar to ID tags) if you have significant allergies or medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, epilepsy).

Hearing Protection

You will likely be issued and fitted with hearing protection (earplugs). If you use hearing aids, ensure you have an adequate supply of batteries.

Deployment Health Considerations

Medical providers evaluating your fitness for deployment must consider the specific challenges of the operational environment, which can include severe climate extremes (heat/cold), high physical demands, poor air quality, limited dietary options, sleep disruption, and potential exposure to hazardous materials or infectious diseases. Certain medical conditions may make you non-deployable without an approved medical waiver from the appropriate authorities.

Essential Documents & Information: DD Form 93, SGLI, DEERS

Keeping key administrative documents updated is vital. These forms dictate emergency notifications, life insurance payouts, and your family’s access to critical benefits like healthcare. Errors or outdated information can cause significant hardship for your loved ones.

Key Actions

Record of Emergency Data (DD Form 93)

This crucial document informs the military who to notify in case of emergency, designates beneficiaries for certain payments (like death gratuity and unpaid pay/allowances), and specifies your wishes regarding the disposition of your remains. Review and update all information before deployment and update it whenever a major life event occurs (marriage, divorce, birth of a child, change in beneficiary address).

How to Update: Procedures vary by service. Typically, you update this through your unit personnel/administrative office (S-1/Admin) or potentially online portals like the Virtual MPF (vMPF) for the Air Force. Check with your unit administrative section. An e-tutorial on completing the form is available via Military OneSource (DD Form 93 course).

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)

Eligible service members are automatically enrolled in SGLI, typically at the maximum coverage level ($500,000 as of recent updates). Verify your coverage amount and ensure your beneficiary designations are correct and up-to-date. Update beneficiaries immediately following life events.

How to Update: Manage your SGLI coverage and beneficiaries online through the SGLI Online Enrollment System (SOES) via the milConnect portal. You must certify your SGLI information at least annually and during in/out-processing.

Crucial Note: Updating your SGLI beneficiaries in SOES/milConnect does not automatically update your DD Form 93 beneficiaries. These are separate actions and must both be completed.

Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS)

This database verifies eligibility for military benefits, most critically TRICARE health coverage and ID card issuance for dependents. Ensure all eligible family members (spouse, children) are correctly enrolled in DEERS before you deploy. Only the service member can typically add or remove dependents. Keep information current after life events like marriage, divorce, birth, or adoption. If a child is born during deployment, take steps to update DEERS/TRICARE upon return or have your designated representative assist if possible with the correct POA.

How to Update/Verify: Visit a local ID card office/RAPIDS site or manage some information via milConnect.

Identification (ID) Cards

Ensure your Common Access Card (CAC) and your dependents’ Uniformed Services ID cards are current and will not expire during the deployment period. If a dependent ID is set to expire, plan for renewal. This may require a specific Power of Attorney if the service member is deployed. Also ensure you have your required ID Tags (Dog Tags).

Family Preparedness: Supporting Loved Ones

Deployment significantly impacts families. Proactive planning and open communication can help ensure the household runs smoothly and family members feel supported during the separation.

Key Actions

Develop a Detailed Family Care Plan (if required)

As mentioned under Legal Preparedness, this mandatory plan for single parents, dual-military couples, etc., is essential. Ensure the designated caregiver has all necessary information (contacts, routines, medical details, school info, financial arrangements) and legal documents (POAs for medical care, school enrollment, access to support services). Seek legal assistance for drafting the plan and associated POAs.

Establish a Communication Strategy

Before leaving, discuss how and how often you plan to communicate (email, phone calls, video chat, letters, care packages). Manage expectations – communication may be limited or delayed due to operational tempo or location. Share your deployment mailing address if applicable. Discuss what can be shared, keeping Operations Security (OPSEC) in mind – avoid specific dates, locations, mission details. Explain OPSEC rules to family and friends. Involve children in communication plans (writing letters, drawing pictures).

Plan for Emergencies

Ensure family members know who to contact in an emergency (Unit Commander/First Sergeant, Deployment Readiness Coordinator (DRC), Family Readiness Group (FRG) point of contact, Command Ombudsman for Navy/Coast Guard). Provide the American Red Cross emergency communication number (1-877-272-7337) and the information they’ll need to relay messages (your name, rank, SSN, unit). Ensure family knows how to access emergency financial aid if needed (Military Aid Societies). Have a family emergency plan for natural disasters or other local emergencies, including an evacuation plan and emergency kit. Ensure emergency contact information is up to date in official systems (like Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System – NFAAS, or Air Force Personnel Accountability and Assessment System – AFPAAS).

Support Children

Talk openly about the deployment in age-appropriate ways, allowing them to express feelings. Maintain consistent routines at home as much as possible. Inform schools, teachers, coaches, and daycare providers about the deployment. Encourage children to stay connected through letters, drawings, or scheduled calls. Help them find ways to think about the deployed parent daily. Plan special activities or ways to mark milestones like birthdays or holidays missed. Utilize resources like School Liaison Officers, MFLCs specializing in children and youth, and Military OneSource materials for supporting children through deployment. If childcare is needed, register with the installation Child Development Center (CDC).

Support Spouses/Partners

Discuss the upcoming changes, division of responsibilities, and expectations for the deployment period. Encourage your spouse/partner to connect with official support networks like the Family Readiness Group (FRG), Key Spouse Program (Air Force), Command Ombudsman (Navy/Coast Guard), or other unit/installation spouse groups. Help them identify personal support systems among friends and family. Encourage them to stay active, pursue hobbies, and maintain social connections to cope with the separation.

Involve Extended Family

Inform parents and other close relatives about the deployment and discuss ways they can provide support to your immediate family at home.

Family Support Resources

Military OneSource

Offers a wealth of information, articles, online tools, and confidential support services for all phases of deployment. Call 800-342-9647 or visit Military OneSource Deployment Section. Key tools include Plan My Deployment.

Military and Family Support Centers (M&FSC)

(Also known as Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC), Airman & Family Readiness Centers (A&FRC), Army Community Service (ACS), Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS)). These installation-based centers provide deployment briefings, workshops, support groups, financial counseling, relocation assistance, and connections to local resources. Find yours via MilitaryINSTALLATIONS.

Unit Support Structure

Engage with your unit’s FRG, Key Spouse, Ombudsman, or other designated family support personnel.

Mental & Emotional Preparedness: Building Resilience

Deployment presents significant mental and emotional challenges due to separation, uncertainty, and potential exposure to stressful or dangerous environments. Proactively preparing mentally and emotionally is as crucial as logistical planning. Building resilience and coping skills beforehand can help service members and their families navigate the difficulties of the deployment cycle.

Key Actions

Acknowledge and Discuss Feelings

Openly communicate with your spouse, partner, children, family, and friends about your feelings, worries, and expectations regarding the deployment. Encourage them to share their concerns as well. Honest dialogue strengthens bonds and connection.

Develop Stress Management Techniques

Learn and practice healthy coping strategies to manage stress before, during, and after deployment. This could include regular exercise, mindfulness or relaxation techniques, engaging in hobbies, maintaining social connections, or journaling. Military OneSource offers resources like the “Chill Drills” audio exercises available via mobile app or online (Chill Drills).

Strengthen Relationships

Make dedicated time for quality experiences with loved ones before leaving. Take photos, plan special outings, or simply enjoy focused time together. Discuss how you will maintain your relationship during the separation. Military OneSource offers Building Healthy Relationships specialty consultations.

Set Realistic Expectations

Understand that deployment inevitably changes routines and dynamics. Communication may be inconsistent, and plans might change. Cultivating flexibility and adaptability is key to navigating the unpredictable nature of deployment.

Utilize Counseling and Support Resources Proactively

Seeking support is a sign of strength and can equip you with valuable coping tools. Don’t wait for a crisis to reach out. Confidential resources are available:

• Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs): Offer free, short-term, non-medical counseling focused on deployment adjustments, stress, grief, relationships, and other life challenges. They are licensed professionals available to service members, spouses, children, and families, often embedded within units, schools, Child Development Centers, or at Military and Family Support Centers. Find your MFLC via the MFLC Locator on Military OneSource or by calling Military OneSource.
• Military OneSource Confidential Counseling: Provides free, confidential non-medical counseling sessions (typically up to 12 sessions per issue) via secure live video, phone, or in-person with counselors in the community. Call 800-342-9647 or visit their counseling page to request services.
• Chaplain Services: Installation chaplains offer confidential counseling and spiritual guidance regardless of religious affiliation.
• Military Treatment Facility (MTF) Behavioral Health Clinics: For diagnosable mental health conditions requiring clinical treatment, seek services through your MTF or TRICARE network providers. MFLCs or Military OneSource can provide referrals if needed.

Understanding Confidentiality: While MFLC and Military OneSource counseling are designed to be confidential (not reported to command, don’t impact security clearances), it’s important to know the limits. Counselors have a legal and ethical duty to report specific situations, including imminent risk of harm to self or others, suspected child abuse or neglect, domestic violence, and illegal activities. Knowing these exceptions allows for informed use of these valuable services.

Leverage Support Networks

Connect with your unit FRG, Key Spouse/Ombudsman, other military families going through deployment, friends, and extended family. Sharing experiences and offering mutual support can significantly ease the burden of separation.

Plan for Family Downtime

Encourage spouses and partners at home to maintain their own well-being by staying engaged in hobbies, work, social activities, and self-care. Staying busy can make the time pass more quickly. If constant news updates cause anxiety, consider limiting exposure.

Home, Vehicle, and Pet Preparations: Securing Your Assets

Ensuring your property and pets are well-cared for during your deployment minimizes worry and prevents potential issues or unexpected expenses while you’re away.

Key Actions

Home Maintenance & Security

• Condition & Repairs: Ensure your house or apartment is in good repair before leaving. Perform routine maintenance like checking smoke detector batteries and ensuring appliances are functional. Arrange for ongoing tasks like lawn care or snow removal if needed. Use a resource like the Military OneSource Home Maintenance Checklist for ideas.
• Security: Review home security measures. Properly secure and store any personal firearms according to regulations and safety best practices. Inform your landlord or dormitory manager of your deployment. If your home will be vacant, arrange for a trusted neighbor or friend to check on it periodically. Provide them with a spare key.
• Insurance: Verify your homeowners or renters insurance is current and provides adequate coverage.
• Utilities: Ensure bills will be paid (see Financial Readiness). If vacating the property, arrange to cancel or transfer utility services. Know where the emergency shut-offs are located. If leaving the home vacant, consider protective measures like turning off the main water supply or adjusting the thermostat.

Housing Lease Management

• SCRA Lease Termination: As noted in the Legal section, the SCRA allows termination of residential leases without penalty under specific deployment circumstances. Remember, you must provide written notice and a copy of your orders to your landlord. Seek guidance from Legal Assistance on the correct procedure.
• Other Lease Issues: If your lease expires during deployment, make renewal arrangements beforehand. If considering subletting, carefully screen potential tenants and confirm your insurance coverage. If you remain on the lease but the property is vacant, ensure your landlord has an emergency contact person.

Vehicle Management

• Storage/Care: Decide the best plan for your vehicle(s): storage (on/off base, commercial facility), leaving with family/friends, or having someone use it. Government storage may be an option (requires DD Form 2506).
• Maintenance & Paperwork: Complete any needed routine maintenance (oil change, tires) before leaving. Ensure insurance, registration, tags, and inspection stickers are current and documents (including title) are accessible. Provide the caretaker with a vehicle maintenance guide, contact information for a trusted mechanic, spare keys, and roadside assistance details.
• Insurance Adjustment: If storing a vehicle long-term, contact your insurance provider; you may be eligible for reduced premiums for storage/comprehensive-only coverage.
• Auto Lease Termination: SCRA may allow termination of auto leases under certain deployment conditions. Consult Legal Assistance.

Pet Care

Arranging care for pets requires detailed planning beyond simply finding a sitter:

• Caregiver Arrangement: Secure a reliable caregiver – family, friend, or professional boarding facility.
• Information Transfer: Provide the caregiver with complete information: updated vaccination and medical records, veterinarian contact details, feeding schedules, routines, medication needs, and behavioral notes. Update a pet information card.
• Financial & Legal: Arrange financial support for the caregiver, potentially through an allotment, to cover food, supplies, and potential emergency vet visits. Consider providing written authorization for the caregiver to approve emergency veterinary treatment. Arrange transportation for the pet if needed.

Mail Management

Decide who will collect your mail. Arrange for mail forwarding through the U.S. Postal Service or authorize a trusted person to pick it up. Specify whether the person collecting your mail has the authority to open it.

Military & Unit Requirements: The Final Checks

These are the final, often mandatory, steps dictated by your command and the specific needs of the deployment. Diligence here ensures you meet all requirements for departure.

Key Actions

Follow Your Unit Checklist

As emphasized earlier, meticulously complete every item on your unit’s specific pre-deployment checklist. This is your authoritative guide.

Complete Mandatory Training

Deployments require various training sessions. Common requirements include:

• Weapons Qualification (if applicable)
• Force Protection / Anti-Terrorism Training
• Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) / Military Equal Justice Act (MEJA) Briefing
• Geneva Conventions / Law of Land Warfare Briefing
• Operations Security (OPSEC) / Subversion and Espionage Directed Against the Army (SAEDA) Briefing
• Media Awareness Training
• Personnel Recovery (PR) Training
• Theater-Specific Briefings (cultural awareness, local laws, medical threats)
• Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) Briefing
• Other briefings as required by your unit or destination (e.g., safety, chemical defense)

Gear Issue & Inspection

Receive, inventory, and prepare all required uniforms, Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment (OCIE), Personal Protective Equipment (PPE – helmet, body armor), weapon (if issued), and any theater-specific gear. Follow packing lists provided by your unit or general service guidance. Pack efficiently; you will likely need to carry all your own bags. Use waterproof bag liners.

Administrative Check-Out

Complete final administrative tasks, which may include:

• Finance Briefing / Pay Verification
• Security Clearance Verification
• Receiving and verifying Travel Orders
• Obtaining Passport/Visa (if required for official travel)
• Obtaining Theater Clearance (often processed through the Aircraft and Personnel Automated Clearance System – APACS, if required by the Combatant Command, e.g., SOUTHCOM, CENTCOM).
• Final personnel record checks (e.g., PERSTEMPO input).

Pack Personal Items

Carefully select personal items based on deployment length, location, and regulations. Essentials often include:

• Toiletries (travel size for initial transit, consider bringing preferred brands for duration)
• Medications (prescription and OTC, 30+ day supply, original packaging)
• Civilian Clothing (conservative, appropriate for downtime/travel, weather-appropriate)
• Sleep System (sleeping bag, pillow/pillowcase, potentially sheet/pad, eye mask/ear plugs)
• Electronics (laptop, phone, e-reader, chargers, power strip/extension cord, headphones, portable charger)
• Comfort Items (photos, books, journal)
• Miscellaneous (watch, flashlight/headlamp w/batteries, pens/notebook, locks, laundry bag/detergent pods, work gloves, duct tape, paracord, water bottle/Camelbak, snacks)

Our articles make government information more accessible. Please consult a qualified professional for financial, legal, or health advice specific to your circumstances.