Life can be difficult.
Life in the military can be even more trying for Marines and their family members. We are faced with deployments, location changes, family additions, and just expenses that we cannot always predict.
There is one place, however, we can all look to in times of need, for a helping hand when it’s absolutely necessary – the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.
The NMCRS has stood by the families of Marines and Sailors for more than 107 years, offering assistance in times of need, according to a recently released All Marine Corps message. To date, NMCRS has assisted more than 4 million Marines, Sailors and their families through interest-free loans, grants and specialized programs exceeding $1 billion.
Having personally been assisted by the NMCRS in the past, I can honestly say the professionalism and courtesy extended to Marines has been far beyond measure. The organization takes its time to address your particular situation and does whatever it needs to do to rectify any issues or shortcomings that may have come into your life. They will reach out to creditors if need be to ensure they are aware of the assistance you may be under and will take control of your queries before you leave the office that day.
In 2010, NMCRS was able to provide $50 million in financial assistance for 99,854 cases. Those numbers alone should be enough to encourage us all to give back. Beginning March 1, 2011, we can do just that. Marines and Sailors are encouraged to donate to the active duty fund drive in support of the NMCRS. The Secretary of the Navy will also communicate directly with more than 500,000 retired Marines and Sailors, reminding them that they and their families remain eligible for financial assistance from the society, and encourage them to continue their generous financial support of this organization, according to the ALMAR.
Gen. James Amos, commandant of the Marine Corps, said it best; “I strongly encourage you to support the NMCRS and its efforts to improve quality of life, enhance operational readiness and ensure that we can continue to take care of our own.”
Aye, sir. Not only would it be an honor to donate, I feel that it is my duty.
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