Servicemembers are responsible to ensure family members/dependents are cared for during deployments, reserve mobilizations, and temporary duty, as well as at all other times during which the servicmember is unavailable.  Formal documentation of a Family Care Plan is required under any of the following conditions:

     - A servicemember with primary or shared physical custody of a minor child or children who is not married to the other natural or adoptive parent of the minor child or children.

     - Both members of a married dual military couple where one or both have primary or shared physical custody of a minor child or children.

     - Servicemembers who are legally responsible for an adult family member who is incapable of providing for themselves in the absence of the servicemember. 
 
 
References:  
 

Family Care Plan  .PDF 
DODINST 1342.19
 
U.S. Navy Family Care Policy  .PDF 
OPNAVINST 1740.4D
 
DON Family Care Plan Certificate 
NAVPERS 1740/6
 
Family Care Plan Arrangements 
NAVPERS 1740/7