Honoring the Connectors: NAS Fallon Hosts Annual Ombudsman Dinner

NAS Fallon celebrated the backbone of its family support network Friday night, hosting the annual Ombudsman Dinner to recognize the trained volunteers who serve as the vital link between command leadership and Navy families.

Created in 1970 by Adm. Elmo Zumwalt, the Navy Ombudsman Program equips spouses and other trained volunteers to help Sailors and families navigate deployments, moves, emergencies, and everyday questions. At NAS Fallon, Ombudsmen field referrals, share timely, command-verified information, and connect families with resources so issues get solved quickly and quietly.

“Ombudsmen are force multipliers for readiness,” a base leader noted during the event. “Because families are informed and supported, Sailors can focus on the mission.”

The evening highlighted the commitment these volunteers make, often after work and on weekends, to answer calls, guide new arrivals, and partner with Fleet & Family Support Center staff to keep families informed.

What Ombudsmen Do

• Provide command-approved information and referrals to base, local, and Navy resources
• Help families prepare for deployments, PCS moves, and emergencies
• Relay family concerns and trends to command leadership
• Strengthen connection and readiness across the command

Need Support?

Families can connect with their command Ombudsman through the command’s website or by contacting the Fleet & Family Support Center at NAS Fallon.