⚓ Navy Ombudsman Program
📬 Confidential Support for Every Step of Your Navy Journey.
The Navy Ombudsman Program is a command-sponsored initiative that strengthens communication between Navy families and command leadership. Ombudsmen are trained volunteers—usually Navy spouses—who provide support, guidance, and referrals to help families navigate the challenges of military life, including deployments, emergencies, and transitions.
Ombudsmen serve as a confidential point of contact for Navy families. Their core responsibilities include:
- Relaying official information from the command
- Promoting family readiness and emotional support
- Referring families to resources such as counseling, housing, and emergency aid
They act as a bridge between families and the command—ensuring families feel informed and supported.
Each command has at least one Ombudsman whose contact info is:
- Shared during command check-in
- Available through the Family Readiness Group (FRG) or command website
- Accessible through Fleet & Family Support Centers – Military & Family Readiness Center
Families can reach out via phone, email, or in-person at events. All communication is confidential and respectful of privacy.
Yes, Ombudsmen are trained to maintain strict confidentiality and only share information on a need-to-know basis. However, they are mandatory reporters of certain issues like domestic violence, child abuse, or threats of harm. In these cases, they are required to report to appropriate command and support services to ensure the safety of individuals and families.
While Ombudsmen are volunteers with personal lives and responsibilities, they are trained to be accessible during emergencies or urgent family matters. Most Ombudsmen provide contact hours and emergency numbers to ensure families know how to reach them when needed.
Ombudsmen are included in regular briefings and communication updates from command leadership. This ensures that the information they share with families is accurate, timely, and aligned with command intent.
While Ombudsmen don’t directly solve these issues, they are well-connected to base resources and programs. They can refer you to the appropriate support services like Housing Offices, Child & Youth Programs, Fleet and Family Support Centers, and Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society for assistance.
Most commands are required to appoint at least one Ombudsman, though very small or specialized units may share an Ombudsman with a parent command. If you’re unsure who your Ombudsman is, the Fleet and Family Support Center or your command’s admin office can help you connect.
🌟 Navy New Spouse Program
Start by visiting your installation’s Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) or Military & Family Readiness Center (M&FRC). They’ll introduce you to the New Spouse Program and provide essential information on ID cards, DEERS enrollment, TRICARE, housing, and more. You’ll also be connected to your command’s Ombudsman and possibly a mentor.
The Navy New Spouse Program is designed to help individuals who are new to the military lifestyle feel informed, connected, and confident. Through workshops, mentorship, and resources, new spouses learn about military structure, benefits, support services, and how to thrive within the Navy community.
Topics may include:
- Navy structure, acronyms, and rank
- Benefits, healthcare, and entitlements
- Family readiness and deployment support
- Communication with command leadership
- Ways to get involved in your local military community
Many programs also connect new spouses with mentors or seasoned spouses who help guide them through the transition.
New spouses can:
- Contact their local Fleet & Family Support Center or Military & Family Readiness Center
- Reach out to their command Ombudsman
- Participate in orientation sessions or spouse mentorship programs like COMPASS
These programs are usually offered on-base or virtually and are free of charge.
You can stay informed by:
- Joining your command’s Family Readiness Group (FRG)
- Connecting with the Ombudsman
- Subscribing to JBCMFR’s social media pages or checking JBCMFR’s Spouse Resource page
- Attending briefings and workshops
Registering for COMPASS (a peer-to-peer spouse mentorship program)
COMPASS is a Navy spouse mentorship program led by experienced volunteer spouses. It provides an overview of Navy life, benefits, communication tips, and community connections. It’s casual, fun, and a great way to make friends. Contact your local FFSC or COMPASS Coordinator to register.
You’ll want to ensure:
- You are enrolled in DEERS
- You obtain a military ID card
- You’re signed up for TRICARE (military healthcare)
- You’re listed on any housing or relocation forms, if applicable
- You’re familiar with command points of contact like the Ombudsman
Absolutely! Many commands encourage spouse participation through FRG events, volunteer opportunities, or command-sponsored workshops. It’s a great way to build support systems and stay connected.
Yes—military life can be a big adjustment. That’s why the New Spouse Program exists: to offer support, connection, and resources. You’re not alone, and there’s a whole community here to help you feel at home.
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