Understanding Soldier Communication During Deployment

Many people wonder if soldiers can communicate with their families during deployments. The answer is yes, but there are certainly restrictions and guidelines in place to maintain security and operational effectiveness. Here, we clarify the realities of communication for soldiers deployed far from home.

Communication Restrictions and Methods

Contrary to popular belief, soldiers are not prohibited from using their phones or other communication devices entirely. However, access is indeed limited to certain times and places to ensure mission security and confidentiality. In the past, soldiers in Vietnam primarily relied on snail mail and periodic phone calls, which were both very sporadic.

Today, with the advent of modern communication technologies, soldiers have far more options to stay in touch with their families. Tools such as Zoom, social media, and email are at their disposal. They also have access to base camp phone banks, where they can make calls using military-issued equipment and credit.

Operational Considerations

In some situations, soldiers may not be allowed to use their phones freely, especially during missions or patrols. However, they can often use Wi-Fi at designated times, such as during breaks or when in secure areas. For example, during a deployment in which they fired missiles, they might have gone on liberty in Italy, called from the local phone system using a phone card, and dialed into ATT to avoid high costs.

It's important to note that unrestricted use of phones can pose security risks. Historical events, such as the Russian use of intercepted phone calls during the Ukraine conflict, have shown how critical it is to keep communication covert and secure. In such situations, soldiers must prioritize safety over the temptation of making a quick call.

My Experiences as a Deployed Soldier

As someone who has been deployed, I do not hold skepticism towards the necessity of these restrictions. When I was deployed, I encouraged my subordinates to call home when they had free time during the workday. I even purchased and installed a large antenna at my own expense to ensure they could get WiFi signals. Additionally, I made sure they could use my laptop and access the internet to send emails and stay in touch.

My family and I can attest that communication is indeed possible, but it often involves creative solutions and discipline. My son, for example, called me once a month, and his wife called me once a month during his deployment. These calls were important, but they were always balanced against the priority of ensuring safety and mission success.

Conclusion

Communication during deployment is essential, but it must be carefully managed to maintain operational efficiency and security. While there are restrictions, soldiers have access to a variety of tools and methods to stay in touch with their families. Understanding the realities of deployment communication can help ease concerns and misinformation.