The Red Cross should be contacted for birth announcements of a Marine's new baby.

If you have a family emergency during your Marine's deployment and feel you need to contact the Marine, your best course of action is to contact the American Red Cross. Please be aware that contact from the Red Cross will alert your Marine to a serious condition at home. The Red Cross has guidelines they must follow for qualifying emergency notification to your Marine.

With improved speed in communication via the Internet and MotoMail, it may be possible for you to deliver unexpected news to your Marine without alerting the Red Cross. However, if you feel the situation warrants emergency contact, contact the Red Cross. They'll let you know whether the emergency fits into the guidelines and assist you further.

Toll Free for Military Family Assistance: 1-877-272-7337

To Contact American Red Cross or to learn more about their services to military families:

Click Here for Military Services: Helping families around the world communicate during emergencies.