The Army Emergency Relief (AER) 2016 campaign lowered its curtain June 14, with successful results at the Army Community Service building. Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph M. James, U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan Command Sergeant Major, Rose Marie Amian, Ryan N. Ritter, both coordinators for AER 2016 campaign and their campaign coordination team held the closing ceremony in order to recognize not only the units, but also individual Soldiers. The campaign ran from March 1 (with official Area II kick off on March 23) through June 3.
The AER campaign was founded in 1942 by the Secretary of War and the Army Chief of Staff to help Soldiers and their dependents in financial crisis. AER was incorporated as a private nonprofit organization under the laws of the District of Columbia for the purpose of collecting and holding funds to offer relief to financially distressed members of the Army and their dependents. Since then, the AER campaign has been helping Soldiers in need from various fields. For example, the AER recently awarded 3,094 scholarships to children of active-duty and retired Soldiers, and 1,055 scholarships under the Spouse Education Assistance Program.
According to Ritter, in 2016, a total of 468 individuals and organizations donated to the Yongsan Community / Area II AER campaign, raising a total of $37,342.03 in donations and pledges.
Originally, the campaign coordination team's goal was to surpass last year's contribution numbers by 5% or more. They promoted financial hardship prevention through preparation and education while informing Soldiers of the benefits and value of AER, said Ritter. So far, 2016's efforts went a long way in furthering those goals as the number of donors increased by 11% from last year. This increase overshadows the 10% decrease in donation dollars because it is a direct reflection on the efforts made to spread the word about AER and increase awareness of and participation in Soldiers helping Soldiers.
"What makes [the] Army Emergency Relief such an important aspect of our Army is it allows us to 'help our own'. It's about 'Soldiers helping Soldiers'," said James. "It is a proud legacy that reminds us that there is nothing nobler than helping our very own, and there is no better feeling than knowing that your contribution is going to a good cause."
In terms of a successful campaign, service members themselves lived up to the motto, "Never leave a Soldier in need." The campaign coordinators and James presented certificates of appreciation and awards for those who were willing to help fellow Soldiers.
"By donating, you are making a difference in the lives of our Soldiers and their families. For all the leaders attending today, continue to promote the program and encourage those who need assistance that it is okay to ask for help. It is the least we can do for those who give so much for the defense of our Nation," James said in his emotional closing remarks.
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