I applaud The Herald for its March 21 editorial encouraging public support of the American Red Cross in Snohomish County, but would like to point out one area of Red Cross service that was not mentioned.
My son, Justin, is in the Army stationed in Korea. When his grandfather, who had been Justin’s father figure most of his childhood, was diagnosed earlier this year with terminal cancer with a very short survival expectancy, I contacted the Red Cross’s Armed Forces Emergency Services Office to ask for help in notifying Justin and in providing verification of the circumstances to his military command. One of my dad’s last wishes was to see his grandson one more time.
The Red Cross workers who assisted me were not only compassionate listeners; they were ready and eager to help. I could hardly believe how quickly things happened after that phone call. A military chaplain in Korea broke the sad news to Justin; my son called me from Korea; and his Army command authorized emergency leave … all within a day or two.
I learned that the Red Cross workers who helped me were specially trained to assist military personnel and their families and that they have a program called Get to Know Us Before You Need Us. I encourage military families of all branches of the Armed Forces to contact the Red Cross and ask about this program. The number is 425-304-4476.
It will reassure them that help is available in times of personal crisis no matter where the military loved one is assigned anywhere in the world.
Thanks to the Red Cross, Justin was able to see his grandfather before he passed away.
Tammy Burke
Seattle
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