COMMANDING OFFICER

1ST BATTALION, 8TH MARINES

UNIT, PERSONAL, AND FAMILY

READINESS POLICY STATEMENT

 

Reference: MCO 1754.9B

 

To be a force in readiness requires ready Marines and families. Ready families mean that those we care for are empowered with the information, resources, and skills necessary to thrive during deployments or other stresses associated with military life. We are a support network and take care of each other.

 

The aim of the command’s family readiness program is to promote resiliency, build cohesion, and stay connected with each other as we prepare for deployment. Every Marine in this battalion, single or married, is essential to successfully build our battalion family team.

 

Most units focus their volunteerism internally toward the Marines and families of the units they serve.

It is my desire to encourage our Marines and families to give back to our local community and seek

opportunities to make a difference. We can use our battalion’s family network and social energy in a

positive way to help others. That would be such a wonderful way for us to grow stronger together.

 

The Unit, Personal, and Family Readiness Program (UPFRP) focuses on four core functions to help

Marines and families adapt, overcome, and thrive, both in times of calm and times of crisis.

 

- Official communication is a two-way, open dialogue that keeps families informed, helps prevent rumors, and attempts to eliminate the stress of uncertainty.

- Information resource and referral matches families with the appropriate support available to

meet their particular needs in any given situation.

- Readiness and deployment support provides families with the information and tools necessary

to meet the challenge of deployment and empowers families to grow and thrive in the process.

- Volunteer management harnesses the talents and experiences of our family members by

fostering a climate of inclusion and offering opportunities for relevant, significant volunteer

service.

 

Due to security concerns, it is important to remind all members of this command to remain vigilant and practice sound Operational Security (OPSEC) habits in all communications. Know the regulations and comply with all guidelines when handling Personal Identifiable Information (PII).

 

One of the most important resources available for family readiness is our Deployment Readiness

Coordinator (DRC). Our DRC manages our program in coordination with the Family Readiness

Command Team and is ready to provide information and support. I urge you to get involved with the

battalion and thank you for giving your time and talents to make our community the best that it can be.

C. R. RICHARDELLA

Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps

Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion, 8th Marines