During a deployment, a service member can no longer rely on traditional phone calls to keep in touch with loved ones. Instead, they can access email, IM and Internet videos. However, these tools are limited by the availability of Internet service and the time difference between the two countries. Often, service members will have to pay out of pocket to purchase a phone or Internet service while deployed.
Most Soldiers will have access to teleconferencing and email, in addition to internet video phones and email. Some soldiers may have access the internet via a laptop or cell telephone to communicate with family members back home.
However, Army rules govern online behavior. They can be disciplined if a Soldier breaks these rules. They may be subject to revocation or correction of pass privileges depending on the severity. They can also be punished with a counseling statement or revocation of off-post living privileges. They could also be violating federal laws.
Soldiers' online behavior can also affect their Army member status. Soldiers must treat all people with respect, civilians included, and adhere to Army values offline. This includes refusing to take part in partisan political activity, or in organized communication campaigns for a political party. This includes using social media to express personal opinions. Army personnel are responsible for all online content. They must adhere to the UCMJ at any time.
The U.S. military postal system allows soldiers to receive letters and care packages. The postal service can limit communication for soldiers stationed overseas.
Service personnel can also use social networks to express opinions on political topics. However, they should not engage in partisan politics online. They are expected to express their opinions as individuals, not as members of a political party or a campaign. They are also not allowed to participate in interviews as advocates for or against a political party.
During a deployment, many service members will be assigned laptops to use with an email account. Some service members may be able access Internet video phones while others only have email access. Some may be required to wait in a line to send or receive mail. These delays can be frustrating to loved ones, but technology makes it easier for service members to stay in touch.
You can also talk to civilians via the internet by service personnel. They can use Facebook Messenger or Skype to make calls. These services are comparable to video chat in terms of quality. The quality of calls can differ depending on where they are made and what time it is. They do not have to pay a fee for calling a civilian.
It is important to investigate the motives behind Soldiers who are unable to receive mail or emails. They are most likely a fraudster or catfish if they don't have an APO/FPO address.