American Red Cross—A U.S. service agency that can make contact with the deployed service member through military channels and request that emergency leave be granted in cases of serious illness, imminent death, or death of a close family member. The service member generally will not be allowed to go on emergency leave without verification of the illness or death by the Red Cross. This agency is known for its benevolence throughout the world. It is also responsible to provide assistance during natural disasters and emergencies.

Chaplains—Chaplains are military officers from various faith groups who advise their commanders on moral, ethical, and spiritual matters. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that free exercise of religion is afforded to all service members and their families regardless of their religious affiliation. They may serve on active duty or with the reserves or National Guard.

Deployment—A military unit that mobilizes for contingency operations, usually in conjunction with wartime operations, United Nations peacekeeping operations, humanitarian operations, or training exercises. The length of the deployment can vary from a few days to many months.

Family Readiness Group (FRG)—The Family Readiness Group is a formally recognized and sanctioned volunteer group of unit family members and loved ones supported by unit officers and enlisted personnel. The group provides information to and support for families and members of the unit, especially during periods of separation.

National Guard—The National Guard is a unique state-based military force shared by the state and federal government. Members of the Army and Air National Guard perform duty a minimum of 39 days per year but often much more. They can be called upon to augment active military forces in times of national emergency and serve their states and local communities when natural disasters and other contingencies occur. When on state duty—and some state and federal shared duty—they are under the tactical and administrative control of the governor. When mobilized or performing strictly federal duty, they are under the control of the president.

Reserves—All branches of service have a reserve component that is similar to the National Guard. However, their annual minimum required duty days may vary. Unlike the National Guard, they are under the tactical and administrative control of the federal government, not the states. Reservists may be mobilized and deploy in response to national emergencies.

Survivor/Casualty Assistance Officer (SAO/CAO)—A military officer assigned to notify the family or next of kin of the death of a service member. The SAO/CAO plays an integral role in the funeral and burial plans of the deceased service member. He should be consulted and work in close contact with the bishop or branch president who presides at the services and with the funeral director.