Command Ombudsman
An ombudsman is a spouse or other family member of a HSC-7 squadron member who has volunteered their time and effort to guiding other families through various problems that may arise from time to time. While the Ombudsmen may not be able to right the problem for you, they will most likely be able to put you in contact with the appropriate person who can, or point you in the right direction to help you solve the problem on your own.
Navy family ombudsmen are valuable assets in facilitating communication between the commanding officer and family members, fostering a better understanding of the needs and viewpoints of the crew and their families and providing information and assistance to family members within the command.
Ombudsmen fulfill the following roles:
- Serve as the primary link/liaison between HSC-7 squadron members’ families and the command.
- Serve as the primary communicator of information between the command and command families.
- Communicate regularly with HSC-7 families. This includes the monthly newsletter, and this Web page.
- Provide information and outreach to command family members. Interact and cooperate with organizations and military offices such as Family Service Centers, chaplain's office, medical treatment facilities, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, American Red Cross, and legal assistance offices. These organizations are valuable resources in obtaining assistance for command family members.
- Refer individuals in need of professional assistance to appropriate resources. Ombudsmen may provide support to individuals and refer them to counselors for counseling.
- Act as an advocate for command family members. Ombudsmen, by using their knowledge of the Navy system, can help access the appropriate level of the chain of command for intervention and for the forwarding of appropriate requests/grievances while exercising confidentiality.
- Ombudsmen's responsibilities do not include social duties. These roles are filled by the spouse support group chairpersons/presidents.