Skip to main content

Tag: NS Family Line

A Reflection by the Naval Services – FamilyLine Chairman

As we enter our fourth month of life with COVID-19, I hope this finds you healthy and hanging in there. We have been and continue to be challenged in the year 2020 – not only with the concerns about the pandemic, but through the actions of some who remind us that injustice can and does exist for many. Naval Services FamilyLine stands united with the nationwide call to end racism and the injustices that impact our country today. But it is up to us, as individuals, to ensure that it happens. For the past few months, to stop the spread of COVID-19 we had to condition ourselves to individually do our part so that collectively we keep our military and our nation safe. It has been challenging and difficult at times to give up the simple liberties we often take for granted. But we have seen it happen…in our world, our country and in our personal life…it can be done. We each must make the choice to make a positive difference, and collectively we will hopefully see the change our country needs.

The month of June usually marks the start of many beginnings…the beginning of the next phase in life as our children graduate from high school or college, the beginning of summer, and for many the beginning of the next chapter in their military journey as they PCS to their next duty station. But due to the conditions and restrictions we face, these beginnings are happening unconventionally. We can choose to ruminate on the disappointments and change in our expectations, or we can choose to acknowledge, learn, and grow stronger, more resilient from our circumstances. It is up to you as an individual to choose to see things positively. I understand and acknowledge that sometimes this can be difficult. You may need added guidance, assurance, and strength to help you to see the positives. Just know that if you need the extra help to get you through to the other side of this challenging time, Naval Services FamilyLine is here to help. Through our website, www.nsfamilyline.org, and through the MyNavy Family App you can find the resources that can help as you navigate through your military life’s journey.

With the end of COVID-19 still uncertain, so is the challenges and injustice some people face in their daily life. But we must maintain a positive outlook someday soon it will end. Individually we must do our part. Challenge yourself to be and see the positive change you want and what our country needs.

In closing, I would like to wish all the fathers out there a “Happy Father’s Day,” especially my father. He made the courageous decision long ago to enlist and join the United States Navy, that at the time was helping defend his homeland, the Philippines.

Even though he was faced with challenges, he chose to persevere and work hard to provide an opportunity for his family to thrive in so many positive ways.

Sincerely,
Junifer Thomas
Chairman, Naval Services FamilyLine

This illustration, created at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reveals ultrastructural morphology exhibited by coronaviruses

COVID-19 – Chairman Statement

To All Our Sea Serving Families and Volunteers,

In compliance with DOD and CNO policy to help slow the spread of the coronavirus, we are temporarily suspending our person-to-person educational and mentoring sessions, as well as any events or gatherings sponsored by Naval Services FamilyLine until May 2020. This includes all COMPASS, CORE, Command Spouse and Command Master Chief/Chief of the Boat Leadership courses. Though we are planning to suspend our program sessions and events for a couple of months, our understanding of the coronavirus is evolving daily, therefore, we will keep monitoring the guidelines set forth by health officials and adjust our policy accordingly.

These are unprecedented and uncertain times. I know some argue that the precautions being taken across the country may be an overreaction… but as CNO said in his message to the fleet, “Our #1 concern is the health and safety of our Sailors and their families. For now, we must use an abundance of caution and follow the guidelines of health officials. America depends upon our military to help provide security and stability to our nation.” By following and complying with the precautions set forth above, we will be doing our part to help ensure our military remains that vital force for security. As a reminder, you can still find our valuable resources on our website at www.nsfamilyline.org.

Thank you for your patience, understanding and support as we weather this storm. Though we are experiencing uncertain times, I am certain that we will get through this…healthier, stronger and wiser!

Sincerely,
Junifer Thomas
Chairman, Naval Services FamilyLine