Family support group conducts fundraiser

DELAWARE, OH, UNITED STATES

04.23.2008

Story by Sgt. Brian Johnson 

Ohio National Guard Public Affairs

By Spc. Brian Johnson
Unit Public Affairs Representative, 1194th Engineer Company

DELAWARE, Ohio - In order for any military unit to be able to be successful, they need three things; training, equipment and the support of their families. Without family support, a unit's mission has the potential to fail. One such unit, the Delaware-based 585th Military Police Company, is trying to avoid that. Their family support group is holding a fundraiser to help ensure their Soldiers' success.

"We help coordinate unit activities to bring the families together," said Amanda Gernert, a 585th family support group member. "We are there to be a support system for families when they have questions or problems. The family support group also provides information about a family member's Soldier before and during deployments. The 585th is being looked at for a potential deployment in 2009."

"We are attempting to do fundraisers before a deployment happens," Gernert added. "Money raised from fundraisers like this will help defer the cost of shipping care packages to Soldiers while they are gone and helps us to hold family events like Christmas parties and summer outings. They also help provide food and drinks at the Delaware Armory for the Soldiers during drill weekends."

The 585th Family Support Group leader, Theresa Taylor, has first-hand knowledge of how important a family support group can be. Her husband, Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Taylor has deployed twice.

"Although family and friends are much needed and appreciated during a time as difficult as the deployment of a loved one, I truly believe that no one understands all that we go through while our loved ones are away like each other," Taylor said. "It is an unexplainable situation except to those going through it with you. This is one reason I think having a strong FRG is so important"

"It is important for family members to begin getting involved or at least participate with the family readiness group prior to a deployment," said 1st Lt. Kevin Harrold, the unit commander. "Family members need to have a familiar person to turn to when they need assistance after their Soldier has deployed."

There is a wealth of knowledge, experience, and resources in our state's FRG support structure and the unit FRG is the gateway into those resources. The efforts that our FRG is making, be it a fundraiser or a unit cookout, are just one way to bring the family members in and let them participate while making these friendships and bonds.

"We feel there is nothing more important than supporting our Soldiers and building a strong support system for them before any mission they may encounter," Gernert said. "Whether at home in Ohio or overseas, they protect our country and give us freedom."

• Date Taken: 04.23.2008
• Date Posted: 03.31.2015 14:07
• Story ID: 158671
• Location: DELAWARE, OH, US