How do you prepare your family for deployment separation?

I am currently serving on my 19th deployment and with the increases in technology over the years the separation anxiety and issues are nothing like they were on my first one in the late 80's. Granted nothing will ever replace the ability to be there, but with things like Facebook, Skype, Twitter, e-mails and messenger services you can keep family and friends close and informed and ease a lot of the burdens of being away.

Separating from your family is always tough (on you and them) but being prepared is the best way to cope with the deployment.

Try to anticipate the challenges and needs the family will have get yourself a good power of attorney to cover whatever you will need help with in your absence. Have a plan on how you will attend the special events (remotely) via Skype/facetime etc. and try to develop a routine while you are away so that there is some predictability (for you and the family) and have something to look forward to. Keep in touch often and maintain the routine.

During the last deployment to Afghanistan, my wife helped me to watch a UK game thru facetime...I will never forget that (she reminds me about it often as well). Keep your relationship strong and keep a routine for you and the family to look forward to and you will be fine.

I took my laptop on my deployments. Also, don't leave in a sour note.