It's all about their safety...

[Mary, Proud Mom of Nick]

Dear Rodney M. Davis families and friends:

I know the safety of our sailors is paramount to every member of this group. We are here because we CARE about the USS Rodney Davis and it's members.

There have been a couple of posts that could be in violation of OPSEC, innocent and well meaning postings could jeopardize the safety of our sailors and create a problem for YOUR sailor. I have been informed if a violation of OPSEC occurs that the Sailor that shared that information could be held accountable and this could result in: loss of email privledges for the duration of deployment, potentially the loss of their security clearance which could mean their rate or further action could be taken.

When I established this group it was so the families and friends of the Davis would have a place to go to meet, mingle, vent, kick, scream, cheer, celebrate and do all those things we do when our sailors are away.

What we don't want to do is jeopardize our ship or our sailors careers. So PLEASE do not take it personal if you find one of your posts have been removed - it is in their best interest. I will try to send a PM to you if made a post that is in violation so you will know that it's been removed and why.

Here are a few areas that we need to be cautious of:

1) Do not use last names
2) Do not discuss specific medical situations. In addition to OPSEC concerns, it could violate HIPPA laws.
3) No countdowns can be used. I have been informed we cannot even say...yahoo - one month is behind us! IF we knew our ship was on a three month deployment and we said ...30 days are over, that could tell the world, only 60 more days to go.

Can I tell you that I'm learning these rules with you but it's all about keep our Sailors safe!

[Rebecca]

Hello Everyone,

I just wanted to add some guidelines to help you all with OPSEC. I know its hard to understand and some what does NOT apply to us spouse, but it really does! We all here at home have a responsibility to the safety of our Sailors and the Mission of the RMD. When your sailor tells you something about the mission or someones personal information, he's probably not wanting you to repeat it. We all have our codes that we set up with our sailors prior to deployments, but again I have to stress NEVER share that. We have the potential to get the sailors themselves in trouble! Please if you have any question, never hesitate to shoot me an email. Below is just a guideline and some good advice to share.

1. OPSEC: For those of us, that is unsure of what OPSEC stands for: Operational Security. So basically what does that mean for us spouses?

A. Don't disclose ships movements or intentions ( future places, times, dates and ports) (this includes count downs)

B. Don't place this information on your MYSPACE, FACEBOOK, CAFEMOM, etc.....

C. Don't send this information through e-mail, Texts or over the phone (face to face is the best and safest way to receive information)



2. Once the ship is in port you can disclose (face to face is best) information to those that need to know.

This is for the safety of all of our sailors. So, use common sense when disclosing information on the whereabouts of your sailor. Remember "Loose Lips, Sink Ships"!



Safety Precautions for us at home:

1. Never tell anyone your spouse is deployed. ( it's a need to know basis)

2. Try and stick to the same routine you have when your sailor is in port.

3. Move his car around or take it for a drive. ( Good way to remember to start it, I always forget!)

4. Signs on cars or homes indicating your sailor is gone.

5. Limit stickers indicating your sailors command.

6. Talk to the kids on NOT disclosing this information ( dads deployed, he's on the RMD, he in this port, etc...)



Things to help speed up deployment:

1. Keep busy

2. Attend your FFSG meetings (held the second Saturday of every month in the Smokey Point Chapel Annex)

3. Get out an Meet knew people

4. Set up Play Groups

5. Go out to lunch with friends

6. Volunteer



These are just some suggestions and guidelines for us to follow. It's our job here at home to keep the home fires burning. Sometimes it’s a stressful and thankless job that we do, but know that your sailor does appreciate all that we do for them. If your feeling stressed or lost during this deployment, don't hesitate to give us a call. We will direct you to the right direction. Your FFSG is here to support you, so know that you have a great support system in place. You are NOT alone in this deployment.

[Mary, Proud Mom of Nick]

Good info Rebecca, I personally did know what OPSEC even stood for! I never gave any thought to the safety protection for those left at home but they make a lot of sense.

[Rebecca]

Your welcome Mary, thats what I and the FFSG is here to help everyone with.

[roberta]

I've been on the Battlecat web page, but there's no info on the Det 2 out of San Diego. Is there some site that will share info.? My son told me he can't tell me where or when they'll be in port, etc. (even if he knows) I did get news forwarded from the Dec. 5 th paper in Wa. They have also done some good-will activities and have more coming up...central to the Christmas season and meaning. If something is public information, I guess I could share it with family.

Thanks, Roberta

[diane {Shawns mom}]

OK roberta, suspense...What does JOn do!
We are nosey NAVY moms...and this has turned out to be such a small world

[Rebecca]

Roberta,

Once information is given to the media, then to my understanding, its then ok to speak about it. But IF you know more than what is in the paper, you still need to keep mum about what you know. When the media is alerted from the Navy, they are only told what they Navy feeds them. I hope this helps.

Rebecca

[Deborah]

Hey Roberta,,,, how do I get to this Battlecat web page? Also if you find out any info about them would you please let me know? My son is alsos in the Battlecats. He was suppose to have me added to the newletter that comes out but I haven't received anything yet!

[Sue (Aaron's Mom)]

Thanks for the info.