MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Between deployments, training, orders and traditions, the military lifestyle can be a new, and sometimes confusing, transition for Marine families. Fortunately, for those who feel lost in the fast-paced lifestyle, Family Readiness Officers provide tools for families to stay informed.
The primary job of a FRO is to give military family members options to deal with the hardships of life in the Marine Corps. Their goal is to improve the quality of life for families. Family readiness at home helps Marines and sailors increase their operational readiness knowing their family at home is taken care of, according to JoAnne Bielecki, the squadron FRO for Marine Attack Squadron 542.
"My job as the FRO is to ensure that the Marines, sailors and their family members are informed and are able to enjoy the highest quality of life while assigned to the squadron," said Bielecki.
FROs are a direct contact between families and squadron leadership. FROs provide information to families and keep them as closely involved with their Marine or Sailor as possible.
"Information helps empower Marines and their families," said Bielecki. "The more knowledge one has, the better equipped they are to successfully meet the challenges of the military lifestyle."
In addition to providing family members with information and answering questions, FROs organize events to keep families involved and to meet other families in the squadron.
FROs regularly schedule events like themed parties, spouse functions, movie nights and family fun days. Helping spouses and children of Marines and sailors help service members keep focused on day-to-day duties, whether at home or while deployed. FROs know and understand the vital role they play and relish each opportunity to assist service members and their families, according to Bielecki.
"I have a reverence for the work I do with military members and their families," said Bielecki. "I truly feel it is a privilege to have a connection with this special demographic."
For more information on family services and events, contact your squadron's FRO.