Wednesday, September, 24, 2014
What is it?
Total Army Strong succeeds the Army Family Covenant, and provides a broader, tailorable platform from which commanders can deliver essential programs to support a ready Army. Commanders will have flexibility to prioritize and adjust installation programs and services regardless of geographic location or component. Total Army Strong continues and underscores the U.S. Army’s commitment and responsibility to the total Army family – Soldiers, family members and civilians.
Why is this important to the Army?
Total Army Strong reaffirms the Army’s commitment to the total Army family, builds trust and faith between the Army and its most precious resource, the people, and sets the foundation for a balanced system of programs and services. These programs and services will meet the unique demands of military life, foster life skills, strengthen and sustain physical and mental fitness and resilience, and promote a strong, ready, and resilient Army.
What has the Army done?
Under the Army Family Covenant, the Army doubled its investment in base funding for Soldier and family programs from fiscal year 2007 to 2010. This investment funded Survivor Outreach Services, new child development centers, youth centers, and Soldier and Family Assistant Centers for Wounded Warriors. It also improved Army housing and increased accessibility to health care. These enhancements built a better environment for Soldiers, family members and civilians to thrive.
What continued efforts does the Army have planned for the future?
Total Army Strong marks the evolution of the Army Family Covenant. As the nation and the Army prepare for the future, the needs of Soldiers and families also will evolve. The Army will find a new balance to support the premier, all-volunteer Army through responsible stewardship, program assessment and the promotion of self reliance. Decisions to adjust programs will be made strategically, but will be executed locally at the installation level. This will ensure a sustainable balance of services to promote long-term Soldier and family readiness. The Army will continue to refine programs to ensure they efficiently serve the most critical needs of the Soldiers, family members and civilians. The Army will keep the force healthy, self-reliant, ready and resilient.
Resources:
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