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Far from home. . .

Military personnel are serving our country. An emergency happens at home. The Red Cross is there, providing emergency communications services to members of the U.S. armed forces, veterans and their families.

The American Red Cross Services to the Armed Forces helps members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families cope with separation and other special needs related to service in the Armed Forces. Services include around-the-clock, around-the-world communication among service members and their families; neutral, impartial assistance, including: comfort and counseling; independent verification of emergency situations; financial assistance and referrals for emergency travel and other situations; and financial assistance and referrals for emergency travel and other family needs.

All services are consistent with the American Red Cross mission and 1905 Congressional mandate to act "in accord with the military authorities as a medium of communication between the people of the United States and their armed forces . . ..", and are provided by trained volunteers and staff members. Since that time, the Red Cross has provided not only communications, but a variety of basic humanitarian services to help members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families around the globe.

Emergency Communications
The Red Cross keeps military personnel in touch with their families following the death or serious illness of a family member or the birth of a child or in response to other family emergencies.