"The thesis is to allow information to flow. I think it's very important," saysLieutenantGeneral Dan McNeill.
"By giving the family a voice, it makes them feel a part of this organization, which [is something] we try hard todo," adds his wife, Maureen.
The survey was sent to 20,000 randomly selected military spouses. It is a long questionnaire,and takes about an hour tofill out. It asks about everything from finances to healthcare in an effort to improve familylife.
Nancy Sawyer sent her survey in. Her perspective is as both a retired soldier andnow a military wife.
"My number one concern was the tricare system," she says.
"I've talked to so many people who are waiting six to seven months to get money back from a tricare claim, they're youngwith kids, and this is money that comes off of their food table," Sawyersays.
A similar survey was sent out three times before. The Army Family Team Building Programis a direct result of the 1991
questionnaire. Spouses said they needed support when their loved ones were deployed.
"You are going to have to learn the dynamics of children, loneliness, stress, all that can happen," says Tahirih Kraft,who is assigned to the program.
Other questions in the survey ask about housing, childcare and relocation services. The Army hopes it will learn enough to help shape future Army family life.
Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
