What Does the Military Provide for Overseas Deployed Personnel?

Deployed soldiers and their families often wonder about the support they receive from the military when stationed overseas. This article aims to clarify the gear and daily needs provided by the military during overseas deployments.

What Gear Does the Military Provide?

Every piece of gear a soldier needs for their mission is provided by the military. However, each mission and situation may require different equipment, making it impossible to have a one-size-fits-all solution. The military ensures that all necessary gear is available to meet the specific requirements of the deployment.

When deployed, soldiers carry the gear that is critical for their mission. The military is responsible for equipping them with all the necessary items to accomplish their tasks effectively. This includes uniforms, weapons, protective equipment, and other mission-specific gear.

Personal Items and Basic Needs

Deployed military personnel often bring a few personal items, distinguishing their experience from the strictly mission-related gear. Personal items may include:

Personal hygiene items A music system or game system for off-duty enjoyment Extra off-duty clothing for leisure and relaxation Sports equipment for physical activity Posters or souvenirs from bands or other interest groups

These personal items can vary widely among individuals, reflecting personal preferences and hobbies. The US military typically provides a decent income to its personnel, ensuring that most basic needs are met. For instance, a basic enlisted soldier in the US military earns just under $2,000 monthly, safeguarding their livelihood.

Expenses Covered by the Military

Military personnel don't have to pay for several essential expenses during their deployment. The military takes care of basic needs, including:

Phone calls home: Service members do not need to pay for calling their loved ones. FaceTime calls: The military covers the cost of video calls. Travel home: The military covers the cost of transportation back home after their tour of duty. Replacement items: The military provides replacements for equipment lost or damaged during the deployment. Living conditions: Basic needs such as food, lodging, and utilities are covered.

The military prioritizes self-sufficiency, but it ensures that personnel are comfortable and have the necessary resources to carry out their mission effectively. In the words of one servicemember, "When we went to Iraq, what we brought with us is all we had. Sure, food was provided, but that's about it. We are trained to be self-sufficient, so this is not a big deal to us."

Unique Challenges: Personal Fit and Enjoyment

Some unique items brought by deployed personnel include necessities that can withstand the conditions of deployment, such as:

Junk food that will keep for a long time, like peanuts, MMs, and Snickers. Portable and durable food items, such as Slim Jims (a brand of beef jerky).

These items are chosen for their ability to provide comfort and enjoyment during the deployment. However, it's worth noting that some items, like Slim Jims, can become less appealing after enduring the conditions of deployment.

The military’s support for deployed personnel includes not only gear and financial support but also a sense of community and self-sufficiency that helps them thrive in challenging environments.