FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- The annual Army Emergency Relief campaign was officially set in motion by post leaders March 1 at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum.
The theme for this year's drive is "Helping to make Soldiers and their Families Army Strong."
Representatives from Fort Rucker units and organizations gathered to mark the beginning of the campaign that offers Soldiers the opportunity, through direct contact, to contribute to AER by allotment, check, money order or cash donations.
"Your presence here today validates your support to one of the finest programs we have in today's Army that helps leaders take care of their Soldiers and their Families - Army Emergency Relief," said event guest speaker, Command Sgt. Maj. George Kingston, 1st Aviation Brigade. "AER has been asking for support to help our own since its beginning back in 1942, and since that time AER has helped more than 3.2 million Soldiers and their Family members with more than $1 billion in financial assistance."
In 2010 alone, AER assisted more than 66,000 Soldiers and their Families by providing more than $77 million in financial aid according to Kingston. This financial help comes in the form of grants or no interest loans for things like repairing heating and air conditioning systems at home; purchasing and repairing stoves and refrigerators; and purchasing child car seats.
"If a Soldier and his or her Family is changing stations and cannot get advance travel funds for relocation, AER is there," he said.
Kingston encouraged leaders to remember the early years when they were struggling with the demands of a young Family. He then asked them to give generously to AER and to encourage their Soldiers to do the same.
"The first few years in an Army career can present many challenges to young Families. One of the more stressing challenges can be the day-to-day life on a tight financial budget," he said.
When the situation is further compounded with a car or stove that suddenly needs repair, Soldiers can turn to AER for help, he added.
"This help from AER allows our Soldiers to focus on their mission and enhances the readiness of the United States Army. Army Emergency Relief is a true reflection of Soldiers helping Soldiers," Kingston said."We must provide an opportunity for every Soldier to help the Army take care of its own by contributing to AER."
AER program information is also now available by iPhone and Android smart phone applications, making it even easier for Soldiers and their Families to take advantage of AER services.
Kingston concluded with an appeal to "take the next 75 days and make sure that every Fort Rucker Soldier and Family member knows about AER; knows it is there to help if needed - regardless of pay grade - knows how to request its assistance and is afforded the opportunity to make a tax deductible charitable contribution, that's what this kick-off event is all about."
For full details on AER assistance, call Nerida Brooks, Fort Rucker Army Emergency Relief officer at 255-2341, or visit www.aerhq.org.
Social Sharing