Written by: Rebecca Callahan, volunteer
The international Red Cross and Red Crescent network is the largest humanitarian network in the world, with a presence and activities in almost every country. Yet one aspect of the American Red Cross that generally goes unnoticed is the Service to the Armed Forces (SAF), which is odd considering that Red Cross organizations began to care for the sick and wounded in times of war. First, in Solferino, Italy, a conflict between Austria and the Franco-Sardinian alliance in 1859 led to the establishment of the International Committee of the Red Cross. Then the American Civil War inspired Clara Barton to establish the American Red Cross in 1881. And after the impact of WWI, the foundation of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
Since September 11, 2001, the American Red Cross SAF team has served more than 1 million military families and continues to provide critical services on military bases and hospitals around the world. When emergencies strike a soldier or military family, SAF Service to the Armed Forces volunteers provide global emergency communication services, mental health support and many other opportunities to help our soldiers. For active duty military members, new Hero Care Network helps loved ones reach soldiers during an emergency. For patients and families being treated at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center or other military bases can access the Red Cross to help them identify their needs and connect them to the most appropriate resources through Information and Referral Services. Finally at the end of every year, volunteers distribute holiday cards to patients through the Holiday Mail for Heroes program.
It’s incredible to consider all of the ways the Red Cross has maintained our commitment to the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. So this Veterans Day, please consider volunteering your time or donating to support the Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces.
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