PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS PROGRAM

· The pregnancy occurred during initial training (must be determined by the permanent duty station). A pregnant servicewoman may request separation from the Navy before the 20th week of pregnancy (normally, such a request is not approved). Under law, the military departments, CHAMPUS, or the Veteran’s Administration has the authority to pay civilian maternity care expenses for former servicewomen who separate from the Navy while pregnant. FAMILY CARE All single service members and dual military couples having custody of children under 19 or other dependents must have a formalized plan for family care. If you are eligible for family care, you must complete the Family Care Plan Certificate, NAVPERS 1740/6 and Family Care Plan Arrangements, NAVPERS 1740/7. These forms certify that your family members will be cared for during your absence. These forms also identify the logistical, relocation, and financial arrangements that you’ve made. Custodian(s) you designate (name) must have the following documents: 1. A power of attorney that authorizes medical care and person(s) action in loco parentis (as the parent) 2. Identification cards for all eligible dependents If the person you designate as the custodian doesn’t live in the local area, you will also need to make sure of the following: · A nonmilitary escort for family members that need help; for example, infants, children, or elderly disabled adults · Financial support to transport the family or caregiver to a designated location If you don’t maintain an up-to-date family plan, you can be separated from the Navy. In fact, the CO can separate members who are unable or refuse to maintain an updated family care plan, who do not remain available for worldwide assignment, or who are unable to perform their professional or military duties. PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS PROGRAM Learning Objective: When you finish this chapter, you will be able to— · Recall the value of the public affairs and community relations programs. Public affairs works on the principle that the public has the right to be fully informed about matters of national defense. In the Department of the Navy, the mission of public affairs is to inform the public and members of the naval service about the following: · The Navy as an instrument of national policy and security · Navy operations and programs · The responsibilities and activities of naval personnel as U. S. citizens An objective of public affairs is to better the general public’s understanding of the following: · The nature of sea power and its role in preserving the security of the United States · The reasons underlying the need for an efficient and effective modern Navy · The contributions of the Navy in scientific research and in community assistance · The service naval members provide to their country · The career advantages of naval service The Navy is a part of the community in which its facilities or personnel are located. The attitude the civilian community has towards Navy personnel affects their morale and effectiveness. Therefore, all Navy personnel are responsible for maintaining good community relations. They can help to do that by taking an active part in civilian activities and organizations. In addition, each command develops a Community Relations Program to ensure Navy personnel and the civilian community live in harmony. 1-10 Student Notes: