Families Reaching Out To Families

Families United* | December 3, 2007

I was honored to attend the Boot Camp graduation of 2-54 Company B on Wednesday, November 21 at Fort Benning, Georgia. It was a special day for these young men who raised their hand to say “I will defend and protect our country against all enemies foreign or domestic.” These new recruits know that we are at war and are willing to step forward also knowing they will most likely be deployed either to Iraq or Afghanistan. Their ho nor and courage was profound as was the pride of their families in attendance. The families were also aware that their hero would probably be being deployed. This, as we all know, brings with it great apprehension and pride.

Families United was able to step in to help. Ron Griffin of New Jersey, (East Coast Ron) was there to meet Ron Griffin of California, (West Coast Ron). Families United brought the families together when WC Ron read our website about EC Ron and felt he was reading his own story. You see, EC Ron’s son Kyle graduated from Boot Camp at Ft. Benning on November 21, 2001. WC Ron’s son Kyle was graduating from Boot Camp at Ft. Benning on November 21, 2007. An immediate connection was made between the families. This family connection opened the door to Ft. Benning families helping families.

EC Ron made a number of calls and met with the commanders and even spoke at the Turning Blue ceremony on Tuesday when the men receive their infantry insignia. The Commander was concerned that EC Ron as a Gold Star dad would create greater apprehension for the new families. Rather, it was his opportunity to share with them the military family and that they are not alone and Families United is here for them. In fact, they welcome our presence at each graduation ceremony.

Ft. Benning is just 1 of many opportunities. For many families, Boot Camp is their first experience with the military. States that have a military base have a special opportunity to support these families. In addition, we all have a connection with the base where our hero did boot camp!

Opportunities abound - where can you reach out to help another military family?

Contributor's website: http://familiesunitedmission.com

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