FORT IRWIN, Calif. -- Leadership of this installation kicked-off the annual Army Emergency Relief fundraising campaign here at a morning ceremony, March 9.
The AER breakfast guest speaker Guy Shields, communications and public affairs officer for AER headquarters and retired Army colonel, spoke to a group that included National Training Center and Fort Irwin Commander Maj. Gen. Ted Martin, Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen Travers, NTC headquarters leadership, and leaders from post units.
Shields highlighted the theme of this year's campaign called, "Making a Difference." Fundraising is advocated from March 1 to May 15.
Anyone can contribute to the general fund by filling out a form available with unit AER representatives, said Parrish Cruz, AER officer for Fort Irwin. The organization is a non-profit that raises funds Army-wide and provides financial assistance to active duty Soldiers, Army Reserve and National Guard service members on orders for 30 days or more, and retired Veterans. In 2014, Fort Irwin received $779,135.
The assistance can be in the form of grants and loans.
Shields explained that AER was established in 1942, when Soldiers made $26 per month. The program is about Soldiers taking care of Soldiers. He emphasized that leaders make a difference by fostering an environment where Soldiers feel comfortable asking for help, which can be one of the most difficult things for a service member to do.
Martin talked about a recent experience with AER, when it helped a family of a retired Soldier who died. The general explained that he was not aware that AER could help the family, and learned from the AER officer of the benefits available in that case. He stressed to his unit leaders to become knowledgeable about the program and to disseminate the information to leadership at company levels here.
Martin said it is "worthy of an investment of your time and energy in learning about" the program.
Donations to the AER fund can be made by filling out Department of the Army form 4908 and providing cash, a check or creating an allotment from pay, Cruz said.
Social Sharing