Whats the federal government doing to help families cope with loved ones serving in Iraq or Afghanistan?
Geren: First, let me thank the foundation for its generous support of soldiers and Army families. There is no substitute for neighbors helping neighbors and the efforts of private organizations and private citizens are invaluable. The Army offers a number of initiatives to help Army families cope with the stresses of deployment of a family member. We recognize the difficulties a family faces during deployment and offer services for personal support including more child care, expanded programs for children, including help with homework, assistance with household responsibilities and recreation opportunities. And, we have funds available to address emergency situations that may arise. However, no matter what we do, we cannot make up for the absence of a parent or a spouse from the family. We must do all we can, the Army helping its families and neighbors helping neighbors. At the end of the day, however, we owe these soldiers and families more than we can every re-pay. What they give us
