As the Regional Director of Service to the Armed Forces for Indiana, it is with a profound sense of gratitude that I address you on this Veterans Day. Today, we collectively express our deepest appreciation to our volunteers and staff members, from every department and service line, who have nobly served in the United States Armed Forces.
Our commitment to military families and veterans is unwavering, and on this solemn day, I encourage us to take a moment to reflect on and honor those among us who have donned the uniform. Their continued dedication to our nation is commendable, and it is a privilege to work alongside these individuals within our esteemed organization.
Indiana is home to an extraordinary cadre of veterans who seamlessly transition their military expertise, discipline, and core values to their roles within the American Red Cross. Their ongoing service through our mission is both a testament to their character and a tremendous benefit to our community.
This past year has seen remarkable achievements due to your collective efforts. Over 3,500 HERO Care cases have been successfully managed, offering critical assistance to veterans and their families in urgent times. Additionally, the assembly and distribution of more than 3,000 comfort kits to our Veteran Administration hospitals have brought solace to many. Our collaboration with Camp Atterbury in training more than four dozen SAF Deployment Team members, who provide Emergency Communications and morale services to deployed military units across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, is a notable highlight of our joint endeavors.
The breadth of veterans’ involvement across the Red Cross is inspiring. They serve as nurses, logisticians, emergency management specialists, project managers, preparedness experts, public relations professionals, and executive leaders who guide our chapters nationwide. Furthermore, veterans enhance our mission through other avenues—as community allies, benefactors, and blood donors. The support system behind our veterans, composed of their families and friends, deserves our recognition for their integral role in this journey.
On this day of remembrance and every day, I extend my sincerest thanks to each of you. Your efforts to propel our mission forward do not go unnoticed. Let us continue to provide unwavering support to the men and women who have served our country, on Veterans Day and beyond.
A message from Jeffrey Imel, Indiana Region Program Director, Service to the Armed Forces and International Services.