Ombudsman

Contact Information

(850) 449-1169
tw5ombudsman@gmail.com
7480 USS Enterprise St.
Suite 225
Milton, FL 32570

What is an Ombudsman
The Ombudsman is a volunteer, appointed by the Commander, to serve as an information link between command leadership and Navy families. Ombudsmen are trained to disseminate information both up and down the chain of command, including official Department of the Navy and command information, command climate issues, local quality of life improvement opportunities, and "good deals" around the community. They also provide resource referrals when needed. They are instrumental in resolving family issues before the issues require extensive command attention.

The Command Ombudsman program is shaped largely by the Commander's perceived needs of their command. The Ombudsman is appointed by and works under the guidance of the Commander who determines the priorities of the program, the roles and relationships of those involved in it, and the type and level of support it will receive.

The Ombudsman

• Is a person with whom you can discuss a problem in confidence.
• Promises to treat the problems you discuss in a confidential and professional manner, and can make sure you are informed about services and opportunities available to you.
• Is a person the Command has instructed and trained because they CARE very much about the unit's family members. The Command wants family members to have a contact person for any question they may have through the Navy Ombudsman Program. If I don't know the answer, I will provide you with a resource that can answer your questions.

History
In 1970, then-Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Elmo Zumwalt, recognized issues and concerns that are unique to Navy families. In response to those issues, he established the Navy Family Ombudsman program. This volunteer program, governed by OPNAVIST 1750.1G is designed to provide better communication between Navy families and Navy officials.

The Ombudsman is a vital resource to assist the command in discharging the Commander's responsibilities for the morale and welfare of the command's families. The Ombudsman is the link between the command and the Navy family. This is especially true in deploying commands, where the Ombudsman is the primary point of contact between the families at home and the command during deployment. As a spouse, it's important to get acquainted with your local Ombudsman. The Ombudsman is not a counselor or a social worker, but can show you the direct route toward finding solutions by helping you get the assistance you need.