1ABCT leaders help raise awareness for AER during Atlantic Resolve

ZAGAN, POLAND

05.15.2019

Story by Maj. Jon Allen 

1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division

AER is designed to help Soldiers, Family members and retirees in need of occasional financial assistance for normal circumstances or sudden emergencies, according to Maj. Christopher M. Collins, intelligence officer for the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division.
“Army Emergency Relief is funded by donations, and it is great way to give back and help those in need,” said Collins. Interest-free loans are available for food, utilities, car seats, appliance repair, and essential vehicle repair,” he said.
Collins and 1ABCT, known as The Devil Brigade, deployed to Poland four months ago to support Atlantic Resolve, which is an operation designed to build readiness and enhance bonds between ally and partner militaries throughout Europe.
Even with the mission at hand, Soldiers from 1ABCT still chose to take a moment and stress the importance of AER and help raise awareness of the program.
“We must allot time as leaders to speak to our units and provide guidance and education on the Army Emergency Relief Program,” said Master Sgt. Bradley Spaid, operations sergeant major, 1ABCT.
“I feel that we can have a bigger impact in supporting this program if we educated our Soldiers on its importance. If our Soldiers understand the benefits the program provides, they are more likely to contribute to the program,” said Spaid.
Financial assistance is also available for Soldiers affected by government shutdowns and natural disasters such as flooding, wildfires, typhoons and hurricanes. Evacuation orders are sometimes issued by commanders when there are sudden, severe weather threats pending an area.
Evacuation costs can possibly include days of worth of travel, gas, food and lodging for families affected. Property damage and repair costs are also potential risks upon return. Expenses can be overwhelming for some, according to 2nd Lt. Shaun Bell, brigade adjutant, 1ABCT, 1ID.
“The security of knowing you will not be alone when life’s unexpected happens is invaluable, gives piece of mind and is a testimony of what we can all accomplish together through generosity and a commitment to each other” said 2nd Lt. Shaun Bell, brigade adjutant, 1ABCT, 1ID.
For more information on the Army Emergency Relief Program and donating, please visit: https://www.aerhq.org.

• Date Taken: 05.15.2019
• Date Posted: 05.15.2019 06:19
• Story ID: 322465
• Location: ZAGAN, PL