FORT STEWART, Ga. – The 3rd Infantry Division, a key component of America’s Contingency Response Force, prioritizes rapid deployment readiness to support global allies and counter threats. This commitment to readiness extends beyond Soldier training to the well-being of their families. For Soldiers, ensuring family care is as crucial as combat preparedness. The Army Family Care Plan (FCP) is the solution, designed to provide peace of mind for Soldiers knowing their loved ones are secure when duty calls.
A Family Care Plan (FCP) is the U.S. Army’s method for guaranteeing the welfare of a Soldier’s family during periods of absence due to military obligations. Army Regulation (AR) 600-20 outlines the FCP, stipulating that Soldiers must designate a guardian to act in their stead for family members who require care when they are unavailable.
According to Army regulations, a family member is defined as a child under 19 years of age or any dependent incapable of self-care, relying on the Soldier for complete support. The appointed guardian is responsible for the health, safety, and overall well-being of these family members during the Soldier’s absence.
It is critical for Soldiers to thoroughly discuss all responsibilities, rights, and entitlements with their chosen guardian. While the guardian is not authorized to use military facilities or benefits for personal gain unless independently entitled (e.g., as a service member or retiree), these resources remain accessible to the Soldier’s dependents.
It’s important to understand that a Family Care Plan is not a legal document and cannot override existing court-ordered custody arrangements or parental rights. Soldiers must develop their FCPs in accordance with any pre-existing custody agreements. If a Soldier’s FCP choices conflict with a court order or name someone other than a natural parent as guardian, they should seek guidance from the Fort Stewart Legal Assistance Office to ensure legal compliance.
Generally, FCPs are mandatory for all Soldiers with dependents who are single parents or part of dual-military couples. This requirement applies across active duty and reserve components, regardless of rank. Chapter 5-3 of AR 600-20 provides detailed categories of Soldiers mandated to have an FCP. Beyond these mandatory categories, all married Soldiers with family members and Emergency-Essential Department of the Army Civilians are also strongly encouraged to create a Family Care Plan as a proactive measure.
Commanders approve FCPs, which are then kept on file within the Soldier’s unit. The FCP completion process involves one or two steps depending on individual circumstances, with varying timelines. Soldiers who are not required to have an FCP but wish to establish one can do so at any time.
“To establish my Family Care Plan, I had to meet with my commander,” explained Sgt. Javiera Scott, a public affairs mass communication specialist with the 50th Public Affairs Detachment, who has personal experience utilizing an FCP. “The initial meeting was simply a counseling statement acknowledging the requirement for a family care plan due to my category.”
Soldiers required to have an FCP receive counseling using DA Form 5304 as soon as possible. Subsequently, DA Form 5305 must be completed and approved within 30 days of this initial counseling.
Implementing the FCP and ensuring family member care during periods of unavailability is the Soldier’s responsibility. If parental duties interfere with military obligations, Soldiers will receive counseling regarding voluntary and involuntary separation procedures, applicable to both officers and enlisted personnel.
The specific documents needed for a complete FCP packet vary based on individual Soldier circumstances. However, a comprehensive FCP packet that adequately addresses family member arrangements typically includes DA Form 5305, Power of Attorney for Guardianship, Certificate of Acceptance as Guardian or Escort, Application for Identification Card/DEERS Enrollment, Authorization to Stop, Start, or Change Allotment, Family Care Plan Preliminary Screening, copies of any child custody orders or marital separation agreements, and parental consent forms.
Soldiers of the Georgia National Guard's 3rd Infantry Division Main Command Post Operational Detachment are greeted by family and friends during a welcome home ceremony held at Fort Stewart, illustrating the importance of family support for military personnel.
“The benefits of a Family Care Plan are twofold: security and stability for your dependents, and peace of mind for you,” Scott emphasized. “Knowing your family will be cared for when military duties take you away, whether for training or deployments, is invaluable.”
For further information about Family Care Plans, Soldiers should contact their unit commander. Soldiers can also schedule consultations with the Fort Stewart Legal Assistance Office for personalized guidance.
