A service member cannot rely on traditional phone calls during a deployment to stay in touch with their loved ones. They will instead be able access to email, IM, or Internet video. These tools are limited due to the differences in time and availability of Internet service. It is not uncommon for service personnel to have to pay out-of pocket to buy a phone, or Internet service while deployed.
The majority of Soldiers will have access not only to email but also to Internet video phones. Some Soldiers might have access to a cellphone or laptop to be able communicate with loved ones back home.
However, the Army has rules governing their online behavior. They can be disciplined if a Soldier breaks these rules. They can be punished by revocations of pass privileges, Article 15, or corrective instruction, depending on how severe they are. They may also be sent counseling or have their off-post living privileges revoked. They could also be violating federal laws.
Soldiers' online behavior can also affect their Army member status. They are expected to treat all people with respect, including civilians, and live Army values offline. This includes refusing any partisan political activity or participation in organized communications campaigns on behalf a political group. This includes using social media to express personal opinions. Army members are also responsible for their online content and are required to abide by the UCMJ at all times.
U.S. soldiers can also receive care packages through the military postal service. The postal service can limit communication for soldiers stationed overseas.
You can also use social media for service members to express their views on political issues. Online partisan political activity should be avoided by service members. They are expected to speak out as an individual and not as a member of a party or campaign. Interviews are not allowed as they may be viewed as supporters or detractors of a particular political party.
Many service personnel will be given laptops and an email account during a deployment. Some might have access via the Internet, while others may only have access through email. Others may have to wait for mail to be sent or received. These delays can frustrate loved ones but technology makes communication easier for service personnel.
For civilian communication, service personnel can also use the Internet. They can use Skype or Facebook Messenger to make phone calls. These services offer video chat quality similar to Skype. The quality of the call will vary depending on how fast the Internet is available and the time difference between them. To make or receive calls from civilians, they don't have to pay any fees.
It is important that Soldiers are aware of the motives for sending mail and emails to them if they cannot receive them. If they don't have an APO or FPO, it is likely that they are a scammer or catfish.