Having served in the US Army, I have a kinship with the men and women who serve in the Armed Forces. This week 28 members of the Oregon National Guard were deployed to Iraq for a four-month deployment. Not only are these airmen serving, their families who remain in the Pacific Northwest are serving, as well.

Not many people know that the Service to Armed Forces of the American Red Cross delivers an emergency message between a member of the Armed Forces and their family every 20 seconds. While I was stationed in Germany, I received a Red Cross message when my grandfather passed away.

I have worked with many soldiers, chaplains and commanders who have shared that Red Cross emergency communication services provides soldiers, marines, airmen and sailors peace of mind, knowing their families can get a hold of them anytime, anywhere during an emergency. This peace of mind allows them to focus on mission.

Several months ago, a friend sent me a video that portrays who are the people in the military and I would like to share that with you.