New Arrivals
Welcome Aboard!
Welcome to the Leyte Gulf Team, America’s Battle Cruiser. Below you’ll find several resources to aid you in your transition aboard. If you have not been contacted by our sponsor, please see the “Contacts” section of the webpage to request a sponsor so that we can help you with your transition to the Hampton Roads area.
Ombudsman
The Ombudsman is a volunteer personally selected by the Commanding Officer as an official representative of the Leyte Gulf families. Ombudsmen play a vital role in establishing good communications between the command and family members, providing comfort, support, friendship, and a helping hand. Ombudsmen pass along information such as the ship's schedule, deployment, community resources, and an understanding of the military lifestyle. Ombudsmen are not mediators and do not get involved in chain-of-command matters. Rather, they can direct you to the right resource for help.
Fleet & Family Support Center
When making your move to Hampton Roads, Va., the Fleet & Family Support Center is ready and available to assist you. FFSC offers everything from recreation and food service to housing and basic family needs. Their services come at no cost, helping families make the most of their military experience while meeting the unique challenges of Navy life. FFSC helps the Navy cultivate its most valuable resource -- you, the Sailor -- by always answering the call for your family needs. Call (757) 444-2102.
The Relocation Assistance Program (RAP) provides services and resources to assist service members and their families in all aspects of relocation. Information includes spouse employment, medical care, housing referral, financial planning, legal assistance, base police, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and hospitality items available for temporary use until your household shipment arrives.
The Area
More than a million people live in Hampton Roads, and activities abound which may interest you. Fishing, camping, historic sites, "live" theater, opera, ballet, symphony, zoos, museums, and more are available. The climate is generally moderate, and there are four distinct seasons. Winters see occasional light snowfalls, while summers tend to be hot and humid.
Hampton Roads is approximately 90 minutes from Richmond, Va., and three hours from Washington, D.C. Hampton Roads includes Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake and Virginia Beach, a popular tourist destination. For additional information on the area and Naval Station Norfolk, visit Fast Facts.
Housing & Property Rentals
Talk to the housing office about your housing options before you finalize plans to bring your family to Norfolk. For a listing of available property rentals, visit Housing and Property Rentals or contact Navy housing at (757) 445-2832.
Navy Lodge
When you arrive in Norfolk, you and your family may need to stay in temporary lodging while awaiting housing. The Navy Lodge is a great resource that is available to you. There are three Navy Lodges in the Hampton Roads area. Be aware, they are very popular and you will need to book your room as far in advance as possible. Phone: (800) 628-9466.