The Ombudsman is a vital resource who assists a unit by looking out for the morale and welfare of his or her command's families. Their main job is to watch out for everyone and to help point people in the right direction.
Family Resources: Family Liaison Officer,
The Family Liaison Officer, or Ombudsman, is a communication link
between the Commanding Officer and family members. Ombudsmen are mainly
Information and Referral Specialists who help command family members
gain the assistance they need - this is especially relevant for deploying
commands. Normally the role of ombudsman is filled by a military spouse,
so keep in mind that they are not professional counselors or social
workers, but can assist you with finding the help and services you
Navy and Coast Guard families are both served by Ombudsman programs
while the Army Family Liaison Office serves all
Army soldiers, civilians and families of active Army, the
Guard, Reserves and Retirees.
The Marine Corps has a similar program called the Key Volunteers.
The Key Volunteer Network is a communications network formed within
a unit to keep families better informed about the mission and tasks
of that unit, and to assist in establishing a sense of community within
Contact you local Family Resource Center to find out how to contact
your command's Ombudsman or Family Liaison.